Kavango east: The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) in the Kavango East Region has embarked on a weeklong cervical cancer screening campaign targeting women aged 25 years and older.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Acting Regional Health Director Sacky Nairenge informed that the campaign, which commenced on Monday and runs until Friday, is aimed at promoting the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer. The initiative specifically targets women living with HIV, as they face an increased risk of developing cervical cancer due to potential immune system complications.

Nairenge highlighted that screening teams have been deployed to the Andara, Nyangana, and Rundu health districts to conduct screenings. In the Rundu district alone, screenings are being offered at about 10 clinics. Women found to have abnormalities during screening are offered immediate treatment.

Nairenge urged all eligible women, including those who are HIV-negative, to participate in the campaign. He emphasized the importance of regular screenings, recommending that all women be screened for cervical cancer once every three to five years, while those living with HIV should be screened once every three years.

Despite the campaign, Nairenge noted that cervical cancer screening coverage in the region has remained low due to a shortage of trained personnel and limited equipment. However, support from development partners, including the Centres for Disease Control (CDC), is aiding the region in expanding screening services and increasing the number of women being screened.