Cervical cancer remains a major health crisis for women in Africa, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting that 19 of the 20 countries with the highest incidence rates are on the continent. In 2022 alone, over 100,000 new cases were recorded in Africa, leading to more than 76,000 deaths—equivalent to nearly nine lives lost every hour.
Despite these alarming statistics, medical advancements and increased HPV vaccine coverage offer hope for eliminating the disease within a generation. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasizes that, unlike most cancers, cervical cancer is both preventable and curable if detected early.
HPV Vaccination Expands as a Game-Changer
Persistent infections with HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases. To combat this, WHO has introduced a single-dose HPV vaccine, now adopted by 60 countries, including 17 in Africa. The expanded use of vaccines like Cecolin is expected to improve coverage despite past supply shortages.
In 2023, global single-dose HPV vaccine coverage for girls aged 9-14 increased from 20% to 27%, with an additional six million girls receiving the shot. By September 2024, 57 countries had implemented the single-dose schedule, marking significant progress toward WHO’s goal of vaccinating 90% of girls by age 15.
A Multi-Faceted Approach to Elimination
Beyond vaccination, global efforts to eliminate cervical cancer include increased access to HPV-based screening and improved treatment options. Over 60 countries, including 17 in Africa, have integrated HPV testing into their cervical screening programs, and 83 nations now offer surgical-care services for cervical cancer as part of healthcare benefit packages.
Health experts stress that strong political commitment is essential to sustaining progress. Ensuring universal health coverage and addressing socio-cultural challenges will be key to making cervical cancer a disease of the past.