Strengthening Cervical Cancer Prevention for Girls and Women
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and THPS is reaffirming its commitment to reducing cervical cancer morbidity and mortality among girls and women through the PEPFAR/CDC-funded Afya Hatua Project.
Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in Tanzania—yet it is highly preventable and treatable when detected early, particularly among women living with HIV who face a higher risk of persistent Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection.
Integrated Cervical Cancer Services Across Four Regions
In collaboration with Regional and Council Health Management Teams (R/CHMTs), THPS continues to deliver comprehensive cervical cancer prevention services at 364 Afya Hatua-supported health facilities in Kigoma, Pwani, Shinyanga, and Tanga.
These services include:
- Cervical cancer screening using Smartphone-Enhanced with Acetic Acid (SEVIA) and HPV DNA testing
- Treatment of precancerous lesions using recommended methods
- Coverage of biopsy investigation costs for women suspected to have cervical cancer
- Referral facilitation for advanced cancer care
- Support for HPV vaccination among eligible girls living with HIV
Results That Save Lives
To date, the Afya Hatua Project has recorded significant milestones:
- 35,984 women living with HIV screened for cervical cancer
- 929 women (3%) diagnosed with precancerous lesions
- 898 women (97%) received timely treatment, preventing progression to cancer
- 225 women suspected to have cervical cancer received further evaluation and referral for specialized care
These outcomes demonstrate the importance of screening, early detection, prompt treatment, and strong referral systems in saving lives.
Harnessing Innovation to Improve Accuracy
To further enhance screening quality, THPS empowered healthcare workers from 62 health facilities to use Smartphone-Enhanced Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (SEVIA)—an innovative technology that combines smartphone imaging, expert remote review, and artificial intelligence to improve diagnostic accuracy and clinical decision-making.
SEVIA not only strengthens provider confidence but also reduces missed diagnoses, particularly in resource-limited settings.
As a stakeholder in cervical cancer prevention and in commemorating the Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, THPS remains committed to working with government and partners to promote awareness on this highly preventable disease, scale up access, strengthen health worker capacity, and integrate cervical cancer services within HIV care—ensuring that no woman or girl is left behind.
Early screening saves lives. Prevention works. Together, cervical cancer is beatable.
Neema Chillo
Hongera sana THPS kqa kuwafikia akina mama na mabinti katika huduma hii muhimu sana.