The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Eastern Region and the Communication for Development and Advocacy Consult (CDA Consult), a non-governmental organisation, last Thursday launched a project called the “Eastern Region must rise up against Cervical Cancer” campaign in Koforidua.
The initiative aims to change the paradigm of advocacy for cervical cancer vaccinations in the region.
Both organisations have acknowledged the significance of educating the public in the region about the severity of the disease and have united to increase awareness about cervical cancer in Ghana.
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
During her address to the media, Madam Ophelia Nanayaa Ankrah, the Eastern Region Director of NCCE, highlighted that the campaign was in line with NCCE’s mission to promote and uphold democracy as well as educate the public.
For her, the main cause of cervical cancer was the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection that was very common and often did not cause any symptoms in its early stages, which was why regular screening was so important.
Madam Ankrah said the most common screening test for cervical cancer was the Pap test, which involved collecting cells from the cervix and examining them under a microscope for any abnormalities.
Another test she stated that could be done was the HPV test, which looks for the presence of the virus in the cervix.
“If cervical cancer is detected early, it is highly treatable. Treatment options for cervical cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and other factors,” she added.
She expressed regret on why many women in developing countries did not have access to regular screening and treatment for cervical cancer, leading to higher rates of the disease and death.
Mr Francis Ameyibor, Executive Secretary of CDA Consult added that the development of the HPV vaccine had been a major breakthrough in the fight against the disease.
He explained that the campaign was a result of the collaborative effort between CDA Consult, the NCCE, Eastern Regional Directorate and other partners, such as the National Insurance Commission (NIC), adding that the initiative known as the CDA Consult Free Cervical Cancer Change Paradigm Advocacy, aims to launch a continuous advocacy campaign in the region for the next five years.
Mr Ameyibor praised NCCE Eastern Regional Director, Ms Ankrah, and her committed team throughout the region for their courageous decision.
FROM BENEDICTA GYIMAAH FOLLEY, KOFORIDUA