1. Multimodality screening and prevention of cervical cancer in sub-Saharan Africa: a collaborative model.
- Author
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Chinn J and Tewari KS
- Subjects
- Africa South of the Sahara, Community Health Services organization & administration, Early Detection of Cancer economics, Female, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Humans, Mass Screening economics, Papanicolaou Test, Papillomavirus Vaccines administration & dosage, Physical Examination methods, Physical Examination statistics & numerical data, Early Detection of Cancer methods, Mass Screening methods, Papillomavirus Infections diagnosis, Uterine Cervical Neoplasms prevention & control
- Abstract
Purpose of Review: Although cervical cancer continues to decrease in incidence throughout the developed world because of rigorous screening and vaccination campaigns, the disease remains a major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality in resource-limited regions including sub-Saharan Africa. This review summarizes current efforts to implement cost-effective and widespread cervical cancer education, screening, and community-based interventions in Africa and the challenges faced by local healthcare workers., Recent Findings: Effective screening with cytology (with or without high-risk human papillomavirus [HPV] DNA testing) as well as HPV self-sampling remains problematic in African countries because of a paucity of cytopathologists and resources. Accordingly, visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid (VIA) with cryotherapy triage has gained traction in mass-screening campaigns because of low-cost supplies., Summary: Public education to facilitate screening is essential. VIA remains a strong community-based approach. The involvement of technology in teaching local providers, advertising screenings to the community, and helping improve follow-up may also improve screening efforts. Ultimately, the best form of prevention is through HPV vaccination, which also requires implementation of ongoing public education programs.
- Published
- 2020
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