World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day: Screening and immunization imperative

Kathmandu, Nov 17: The World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day is being observed across the globe today, November 17, under the theme of 'Act Now: Eliminate Cervical Cancer'.

According to the World Health Organization, cervical cancer is the fourth major cancer afflicting women in the world. Every year, 660 thousand women suffer from cervical cancer, while nearly 350 thousand lose to the battle with this lethal disease. 

In Nepal as well, cervical cancer is no less lethal. It is the major life threat to Nepali women. Irrespective of the measures to control the disease, cervical cancer is tested positive to nearly six women in a day here, according to the Ministry of Health and Population. Every day, four women lose life battle to cervical cancer.

Secretary at Ministry of Health and Population, Dr Bikash Devkota, believed the theme of this year's Cancer Elimination Day would inspire all sides concerned to work for massive public awareness, control and elimination of the cancer.  The control and elimination of cancer requires shared responsibilities, he added.

In his video message given on the Day today, screening, expansion of HPV, awareness raising and strengthening of health system are imperatives for Nepal as well.

"In a bid to the elimination of cervical cancer, the Health Ministry has launched a nationwide programme under which 94 percent adolescent girls were HPV vaccinated for the first time free of cost," he said, informing that Grade 6 girl students and those of 10 year and outside school would be administered the HPV coming February. 

As part of the cancer elimination drive, Nepal government has set the strategic goal of vaccinating (HPV) 90 percent of the teenage girls by 2030 while conducting screening of 90 percent of women above 30-year and treating 90 percent women diagnosed with cervical cancer. 

The doctors suggest all women above 30-year to undergo regular preliminary test of cervix. Similarly, the HIV-infected women need undergoing regular cervical test. 

As per Nepal Demographic Survey, some 11 percent women have conducted cervical screening.

The challenges before deprivation of the check up are lack of awareness, limited access to health service, concentration of skilled medical persons and specialists on Kathmandu and urban centres, absence of regular programmes, social stigma and financial constraints.

Dr Devkota said the fatality rate of cervical cancer is high as the disease is traced in the late age of women. (RSS)