Cervical cancer a crisis – Scott

Wife of Acting President, Charlotte Scott has called for concerted efforts to address cervical and breast cancer in Sub-Saharan countries which have reached crisis levels.

Dr Scott expressed worry at the soaring figures of cancer patients in Sub-Sahara Africa which includes Zambia.

She was speaking when she officiated at the Leave No-One Behind: High Level Advocacy and Cervical Cancer one day workshop held at Cresta Golfview Hotel in Lusaka.

Dr Scott explained that new cases of cervical cancer are estimated to increase three times faster in low-income and middle income countries largely found in Africa than in high income western and oriental countries.

She pointed out that cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality with more than 55,000 women dying each year in Sub Sahara.

Dr Scott has since called for a strong consensus and determination to search for innovative ways to detect and cure cervical cancer that is becoming prevalent in young women in Africa.

And speaking earlier at the same function, United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) Country Director Tsehaiu Medhin said the Sub Saharan region is faced with many health and social issues which are affecting women and children.

She implored delegates to use the workshop to reflect and reposition the continent’s resolve to address issues affecting women in Africa.

Ms Medhin called for implementation of policies that will seek to make a positive difference in the lives of women and young children.