By Manuel Padilla

Cervical cancer is a significant health challenge in Uganda and across Africa. It is caused by persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) and ranks as the fourth most common cancer among women globally. In 2022, there were approximately 660,000 new cases and 350,000 deaths attributed to cervical cancer, despite it being largely preventable through HPV vaccination and regular screening (WHO, 2025). Early detection and prompt treatment can cure the disease, making awareness and access to healthcare crucial.

The Burden of Cervical Cancer in Africa

Cervical cancer disproportionately affects women in low- and middle-income countries, where access to vaccination, screening, and treatment services is often limited. Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest rates of cervical cancer incidence and mortality in the world. The age-standardized incidence rate in Southern Africa is 36 per 100,000 women, starkly contrasting with just 6 per 100,000 in North America and 7 per 100,000 in Western Europe (Mulongo & Chibwesha, 2022).

In Uganda, cervical cancer is the most prevalent cancer, constituting about 19% of all cancer cases and approximately 34% of all cancers in women, according to the 2022 Global Cancer Observatory data (Baik et al., 2025). The country experiences mortality rates that are 1.4 times higher than the regional average and 5.7 times higher than the global average, underscoring the urgent need for effective interventions.

Risk Factors and Vulnerable Populations

HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, and nearly all sexually active individuals will be infected at some point, often without symptoms. Women with weakened immune systems, particularly those living with HIV, are at a significantly higher risk. Studies show that women with HIV are six times more likely to develop cervical cancer compared to their HIV-negative counterparts (WHO, 2025). This intersection of HPV and HIV highlights the need for targeted health strategies that address the unique vulnerabilities of these populations.

Barriers to Prevention and Treatment

Several barriers hinder effective cervical cancer prevention and treatment in Uganda:

  1. Limited Access to Vaccination: Many women and girls lack access to the HPV vaccine, which can prevent the majority of cervical cancer cases.
  2. Inadequate Screening Services: Regular screening is essential for early detection, yet many women do not have access to these services due to logistical and financial constraints.
  3. Cultural Stigma: Cultural beliefs and stigma surrounding sexual health can deter women from seeking preventive care and treatment.
  4. Lack of Awareness: Many women are unaware of the risks associated with cervical cancer and the importance of vaccination and screening.

Community Efforts and Interventions

In response to the growing cervical cancer crisis, organizations like the Platform for the Needy (PLANE) are taking proactive steps to address the issue in Uganda. Based in Fort Portal Tourism City, PLANE focuses on community education to promote awareness of cervical cancer prevention and treatment. Their initiatives include:

  • Media Campaigns: Utilizing local television and radio stations to disseminate information about cervical cancer, HPV vaccination, and the importance of regular screening.
  • Outreach Programs: Organizing community events to educate women about cervical cancer and encourage them to participate in screening programs.
  • Partnerships: Collaborating with local health authorities to improve access to screening and vaccination services.

Conclusion

Cervical cancer poses a significant health threat to women in Uganda and across Africa. With high incidence and mortality rates, it is crucial to prioritize prevention, early detection, and treatment. By addressing barriers to access and increasing awareness through community initiatives, we can combat this preventable disease. Organizations like PLANE play a vital role in empowering women and promoting healthier futures. Together, we can work towards reducing the burden of cervical cancer and improving reproductive health outcomes in Uganda.

References:

Baik, D., Kim, B., Ha, Y., Oh, J., Niyonzima, N., Mpammani, C., Asasira, J., Origa, M., Orem, J., Ki, M., Jatho, A. (January, 2025). Awareness, knowledge, and attitude toward cervical cancer screening and prevention in Uganda. ScienceDirect. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0033350624005018

Mulongo, M., Chibwesha, C. J. (December 2022). Prevention of Cervical Cancer in Low-Resource African Settings. National Library of Medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10212780/

World Health Organization [WHO]. (December 2, 2025). Cervical Cancher. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer