A STRINGENT screening policy coupled with individual HPV DNA testing could reduce the county’s incidence of cervical cancer by 91% to 94%.’
That is the encouraging message of Empangeni specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Jayeshnee Moodley, who last week hosted a free pap smear drive to promote awareness of cervical cancer and to dispel the myths associated with the disease.
As one of the most common gynaecological cancers affecting one in 42 women, and associated with high mortality, Dr Moodley used the platform of national women’s month to call on women to empower themselves with knowledge.
‘Since starting the cervical cancer awareness drive in 2014, 10% of Zululand women have been diagnosed with a pre-cancerous lesions, which was subsequently treated and cured.
‘Last week we completed almost 100 pap smears over a two-day period.
‘Many women shy away from a pap smear because of the fear and embarrassment associated with the procedure.
‘Our 2016 goal is to target women in the lower income bracket, specifically those who do not have a medical aid and generally would not be able to see a specialist.’
According to Dr Moodley, HIV women are in a higher risk group as they are associated with a quicker progression of the disease.
While education and awareness are key points, encouraging women to go for regular tests sometimes prove difficult.
‘Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infections account for 90% of cervical cancers and is transmitted through unprotected sex.
‘HPV integrates into the cervical tissue and causes damage which results in cancer,’ Moodley said.
‘HPV vaccine is administered to young girls between the ages of 9 and 13 to prevent HPV infection, with a 95% success rate of preventing cervical cancer.’
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