Cervical cancer in Botswana: current state and future steps for screening and treatment programs

Type Journal Article - Frontiers in Oncology
Title Cervical cancer in Botswana: current state and future steps for screening and treatment programs
Author(s)
Volume 5
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2015
Page numbers 239
URL http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fonc.2015.00239/full
Abstract
Botswana has a high burden of cervical cancer due to a limited screening program and high HIV prevalence. About 60% of the cervical cancer patients are HIV positive; most present with advanced cervical disease. Through initiatives by the Botswana Ministry of Health and various strategic partnerships, strides have been made in treatment of pre-invasive and invasive cancer. The See and Treat program for cervical cancer is expanding throughout the country. Starting in 2015, school-going girls will be vaccinated against HPV. In regards to treatment of invasive cancer, a multidisciplinary clinic has been initiated at the main oncology hospital to streamline care. However, challenges remain such as delays in treatment, lack of trained human personnel, limited follow-up care, and little patient education. Despite improvements in the care of pre-invasive and invasive cervical cancer patients, for declines in cervical cancer-related morbidity and mortality to be achieved, Botswana needs to continue to invest in decreasing the burden of disease and improving patient outcomes of patients with cervical cancer.

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