Cervical cancer, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), is a leading cause of death among women. Rutendo Mhonda (not her real name) was unaware of the implications when diagnosed with Stage 2 cervical cancer. Fear and uncertainty overwhelmed her.
The diagnosis came in 2020 when medical facilities were overwhelmed, affecting the treatment of other diseases, including cervical cancer. Mhonda struggled to travel to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, Zimbabwe’s leading cancer treatment center. Travel restrictions and the strain on healthcare services worsened her situation. By 2022, her cancer had progressed to Stage 4. Unfortunately, she passed away.
Mhonda’s case highlights the deadly impact of cervical cancer. According to WHO, cervical cancer is a significant public health concern in Zimbabwe. Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora emphasized its severity, especially for women in rural areas. “Cervical cancer remains a challenge with far-reaching implications for the health and well-being of our citizens,” Mombeshora stated.
He revealed that Zimbabwe diagnoses an estimated 3,000 new cases annually, with about 2,000 women dying each year. “More than 75% of those diagnosed do not survive,” Mombeshora noted. He stressed that cervical cancer is preventable and treatable with timely screening, vaccination, and access to quality health services.
In 2022, WHO reported that cervical cancer was the leading cause of mortality among women in Africa. Zimbabwe ranks fourth globally in cervical cancer prevalence. Despite this, the country has been steadfast in its commitment to eliminate the disease. Mombeshora reaffirmed the government’s dedication to eliminating cervical cancer by 2030.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has urged health sector investors to collaborate with the government to transform Zimbabwe into a provider of modern health services. “Zimbabwe is against this preventable disease and has taken bold steps to ensure equitable access to prevention, screening, and treatment,” Mombeshora said.
Since the inception of the national human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program in 2018, Zimbabwe has made significant progress. Over two million girls have been vaccinated to date. Efforts are underway to develop an HPV vaccination revitalization action plan to ensure no eligible girl is left behind. “Guided by our national cancer prevention and control plan, we are making critical strides,” Mombeshora added.
Over 200 healthcare facilities across Zimbabwe now offer visual inspection with acetic acid and cervicography (VIAC) screenings and provide HPV tests. WHO’s Non-Communicable Diseases Director Bente Mikkelsen emphasized the need to intensify vaccination and screening efforts. She highlighted the US$600 million funding aimed at eliminating cancer, noting its potential to fast-track efforts in Africa and other developing countries.
“This funding is a game changer,” Mikkelsen said. However, she stressed the importance of collaboration among partners like the World Bank, the Global Fund, and USAID to realize these commitments. Other countries visited by WHO officials include Zambia and Sierra Leone.
Cervical cancer, according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), is a leading cause of death among women of reproductive age in Zimbabwe, killing 1,451 women annually. Screening is a key preventive measure. Before 2010, cervical cancer prevention activities were limited, with screening mainly based on PAP smears, which are expensive and have long turnaround times due to a shortage of cytologists.
To address this gap, UNFPA supported the government in setting up a national cervical cancer screening program using VIAC in 2010. This simple method uses household vinegar and has proven effective in early detection and treatment.
The fight against cervical cancer in Zimbabwe continues, with a focus on increasing awareness, improving access to screening and vaccination, and ensuring timely and effective treatment. The government, in collaboration with international partners, remains committed to eliminating cervical cancer by 2030, aiming for a future where fewer women suffer from this preventable disease.
Source: Newsday
