The Ministry of Health and Social Services has initiated a nationwide roll-out of a human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA cervical screening and vaccination programme in Namibia.
The campaign is aimed at reducing cervical cancer, currently one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in the country.
In response to the rollout, the Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) confirmed that public and media interest in the programme has increased.
CAN has called for broader awareness and continued public education on cervical cancer prevention and early detection.
CAN chief executive Rolf Hansen in a statement on Wednesday said HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer.
He said it is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity.
“While most adults are likely to be exposed to the virus at some point, persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains may lead to the development of cervical cancer.”
According to Hansen, regular cervical screening through Pap smears or HPV DNA testing remains essential. Women living with HIV are advised to undergo annual screenings due to their increased risk.
“Cervical cancer in its early stages typically shows no symptoms, which underscores the need for routine testing,” he said.
The ministry has introduced HPV vaccines for girls aged nine to 14, with parental consent required prior to administration.
The vaccines currently available include Cervarix, Gardasil and Gardasil 9. These vaccines, he said, offer protection against the most common cancer-causing strains of HPV.
Hansen explained that diagnostic options for cervical cancer include Pap smears, Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) and HPV DNA testing. Advanced diagnostic procedures such as cryotherapy are used for further examination.
“Treatment varies by stage and includes cryotherapy, thermocoagulation, surgical procedures like Leep and in later stages, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.”
He said oncology services in Namibia are available through public and private healthcare providers and that patients with financial constraints may apply for support through CAN’s assistance programmes.
According to Globocan data, the global five-year survival rate for cervical cancer is 66 per cent. In Namibia, the rate is estimated between 45% and 55%.
“Low detection rates and treatment delays contribute to the lower survival figure,” noted Hansen.
CAN is urging women across Namibia to participate in screening and vaccination efforts to improve national cervical cancer outcomes. – Nampa
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