Women who are HIV positive are more at risk of human papilloma virus infection, making them vulnerable to cervical cancer.

Although a particular challenge in the African Region, given the high levels of HIV infection, this is also a screening opportunity, according to the World Health Organisation.

WHO's African Regional Director, Matshidiso Rebecca Moeti, highlighted that HIV screening and treatment services can be used as another opportunity to raise awareness about cervical cancer while offering screening and vaccination to women attending HIV services. 

The high rate of cervical cancer in Africa depicts the major gaps in knowledge, awareness of the disease, and access to screening.

The World Health Organisation's African Regional Office vouched to continue accelerating action against cervical cancer and ensure the safety of women against the disease.

Cervical cancer is still prevalent among women in vulnerable communities.

In Namibia, cervical cancer remains among the top four among women.

About three thousand cases of cervical cancer were recorded between 2009 and 2019.