Review of cervical cancer screening program in Zambia
Document type: mthesis
Download file(s):
193921 (937 KB)
Abstract:
Cervical cancer is the second commonest cancer among women in the world and commonest cause of cancer related deaths in women in the developing world. Globally, over 80% of all new cases of cervical cancer occur in the developing world annually, where only less than 5% of the world health resources are found. Global estimates in 2000 showed that over 470,000 new cases were diagnosed and over 200,000 deaths occurred from cervical cancer. The highest incidence rates of cervical cancer are found in Latin America, sub-Saharan Africa, south and South East Asia accounting for 15% of cancers globally. Zambia has the second highest incidence (53.7/100,000 women) in the sub Saharan Africa and the 6th highest incidence rate in the world. Screening has been known to reduce the incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer in developed countries. In developing countries, Zambia included, screening has been difficult to carry out due to many reasons. The country has urgent competing health needs like HIV and maternal mortality, limited financial and human resources and a poorly developed health system. In Zambia the economy has been on the decline with slight increase in the last few years. Pap smear has been the screening test for many years in Zambia. With the limited human resource and poor laboratory infrastructure CC screening using Pap smear has failed to succeed. Alternative methods of screening for CC like VIA have been suitable for LIC countries like Zambia have recommended. The Zambia Cervical Cancer Control Program started in 2006 with support of PEPFAR funds. VIA is used as the screening test. Certain aspects of the screening process must be looked into. The follow up care of patients with abnormal results, sustainability of the program and whether the program meets the screening standards set by WHO.
Authors:
Kapambwe, S.K.
Country:
Zambia
Category:
Research
Department:
Development Policy & Practice
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Keywords:
health
,
disease prevention and control
Language:
eng
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
PAGE:
viii, 58
Year:
2008
Region:
East Africa
Right:
© 2008 Kapambwe
Subject:
Health and Nutrition
Title:
Review of cervical cancer screening program in Zambia
Training:
Master of Public Health / International Course in Health Development (ICHD)