Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control: A Challenge and a Commitment for Angola

Author: Dr Natercia Almeida, Maternal and child health officer in Angola, WHO Angola
Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among women in Africa, despite being a preventable disease. Every year, thousands of women lose their lives due to lack of access to vaccination, screening and early treatment. In 2020, The World Health Organization (WHO) established a global commitment to eliminate this type of cancer as a public health problem, setting clear targets for 2030: increase vaccination against Human Papillomavirus (HPV), strengthen screening and guarantee universal access to treatment. Angola has taken important steps towards achieving this goal, but still faces significant challenges.
HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer and can be transmitted through sexual contact. There are more than 100 types of this virus, but subtypes 16 and 18 are responsible for around 70% of cervical cancer cases. Most HPV infections are eliminated naturally by the body, but in some women the virus persists and can cause lesions which, if not detected and treated in time, develop into cancer. HPV vaccination, available in several countries, has been shown to be highly effective in preventing these infections and, consequently, in reducing the incidence of cervical cancer, constituting primary prevention.
Screening also plays an essential role in secondary prevention. Methods such as the Pap smear, visual inspection with acetic acid and HPV DNA testing make it possible to identify precancerous lesions before they develop into a malignant tumor. However, limited access to these services in many regions of the country makes early detection difficult, resulting in late diagnosis and high mortality rates. Expanding screening programs and strengthening the capacity of health professionals are key measures to ensure that more women are diagnosed and treated on time.
In Angola, efforts are underway to introduce the HPV vaccine into the Expanded Vaccination Program, with a pilot project in some schools in the 21 provinces. Vaccinating girls aged 9 to 12 will be an essential milestone for the primary prevention of the disease. At the same time, the country has invested in strengthening the training of health professionals, including nurses and community workers, so that they can carry out screenings and refer women for appropriate treatment.
The WHO has supported the adoption of innovative technologies for the treatment of precancerous lesions, such as thermal ablation and cryotherapy, which allow for
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quick and effective interventions. These strategies, combined with raising public awareness and removing barriers to accessing health services, are crucial to reducing the incidence and mortality associated with cervical cancer.
Although progress is encouraging, efforts need to be stepped up to ensure that the elimination of this disease becomes a reality. The success of this strategy depends on the commitment of health authorities, the training of professionals and the involvement of society. Vaccination must be massively promoted; screening must be accessible to all women and treatments need to be available on an equitable basis.
On this World HPV Awareness Day, it is essential to reinforce the need to accelerate action to save lives and reduce inequalities. The path to eliminating this disease lies through a joint effort between governments, health professionals and society as a whole. Prevention is within our reach and every step taken today represents a healthier future for Angolan women.