A powerful coalition of the South African government, Unitaid and the World Health Organization urged nations to intensify efforts to combat cervical cancer. The G20 workshop was held at Zimbali. This call to action highlights the urgent need to eliminate cervical cancer, the only noncommunicable disease that can be eradicated.
Cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among women in South Africa, with nearly 350,000 lives lost worldwide in 2022 alone, according to WHO statistics. Despite advancements in vaccines and screening technologies, the disease continues to affect women disproportionately, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to healthcare is often limited.
Dr. Sandile Buthelezi, Director-General of the Department of Health, emphasized the link between women’s health and economic stability. “Improving women’s health isn’t just a health issue – it’s an economic imperative. It drives social stability, boosts productivity, and breaks the cycle of poverty,” he said.
The WHO’s 2020 Global Strategy for Cervical Cancer Elimination marked a pivotal moment, providing a roadmap for countries to adopt comprehensive screening and treatment measures. The availability of HPV vaccines and quick screening methods presents an exciting opportunity to make life-saving services accessible to women at all levels of the healthcare system.
Unitaid’s Deputy Executive Director, Tenu Avafia, shared that the organization has committed $81 million (R1.4 billion) to enhance cervical cancer screening and treatment access. Nonetheless, funding gaps pose significant barriers to establishing robust cervical cancer programs.
As the meeting concluded, WHO Country Representative Shenaaz El-Halabi affirmed, “We have the tools and strategies to work towards eliminating cervical cancer.” With unwavering commitment, South Africa aims to elevate its cervical cancer prevention initiatives, working alongside global partners to ensure that every woman’s life matters, regardless of her circumstances.
