Every September, South Africa observes Cervical Cancer Awareness Month to encourage women to get screened and prevent this life-threatening disease. The focus is on education, screening, and vaccination, all of which play a crucial role in reducing the burden of this common cancer.

Why it matters

Cervical cancer is one of the most serious health threats to South African women. It is:

• The leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women.

• The second most commonly diagnosed cancer in women.

The cervix is the lower, narrow part of the uterus, and infection with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer. Globally, cervical cancer claims more than 300,000 lives each year.

HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact, body fluids, and sexual intercourse. Several factors can increase a woman’s risk, such as:

• Unprotected sex, STIs, multiple sexual partners, or early sexual activity.

• Long-term use of oral contraceptives.

• Lifestyle risks like being overweight, lack of physical activity, poor diet, smoking, alcohol use, and exposure to harmful chemicals.

Recognising the symptoms

Early detection saves lives. Symptoms to watch out for include:

• Abnormal bleeding between periods.

• Heavier or longer menstrual cycles.

• Vaginal discharge.

• Pain or bleeding during intercourse.

• Vaginal bleeding after menopause.

• Needing to urinate more often.

Cervical cancer is highly treatable if detected early, but treatment should begin as soon as possible for the best outcome. Importantly, women facing a diagnosis should know they are not alone—there is hope and support available.

How to protect yourself

You can take powerful steps to reduce your risk:

1. Get vaccinated – The HPV vaccine is a proven way to prevent infection.

2. Go for regular screenings – Pap smears and HPV tests can detect abnormal changes before cancer develops.

3. Educate yourself and others – Share information about prevention with friends, family, and your community.

Sources: Government of South Africa, Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), World Health Organization – Africa Region