Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini is strengthening its response to cervical cancer through expanded HPV awareness and vaccination programmes aimed at protecting young people and reducing future cases across the country.
Health experts shared encouraging progress during an HPV awareness session held for Career Guidance Teachers at Mater Dolorosa Primary School in Mbabane. The session highlighted ongoing efforts to improve early prevention and education as key tools in reducing cervical cancer cases.
Data presented during the engagement shows that cervical cancer remains one of the leading health challenges affecting women in Eswatini. However, health officials emphasised that increased awareness and early vaccination are helping to strengthen prevention efforts nationwide.
Nurse Busisiwe Gama said, “We are leading as a country in cervical cancer cases, and unfortunately half of the women die. Looking at the numbers from 2016, that is when the government noticed that people were getting sick and dying. It was then discovered that it was cancer. The numbers are increasing, and many deaths occur because some people go to the hospital late. Others are afraid to come forward and say they have cancer, while some are influenced by beliefs about how they will be perceived.”
Health officials explained that cervical cancer is mainly caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which can be prevented through vaccination. They further highlighted that vaccinating children before the age of 15 offers strong protection and is a key strategy in reducing future infections.
Teachers were encouraged to play an active role in sharing accurate information with learners and communities, helping to build trust and improve vaccine uptake. Education officials said schools remain a vital platform for reaching young people early and promoting healthy decisions.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that continued collaboration between the health and education sectors will strengthen prevention efforts and significantly reduce cervical cancer cases in the coming years.
The campaign forms part of wider national efforts to build a healthier generation through prevention, awareness and early intervention.
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