Dr. Alfred Jatho stressing a point while addressing Journalist at Uganda Media Centre
Due to an increase in the Cervical Cancer death in Uganda, government through Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) has intensified efforts to reduce on the number of such Cancer related death.
According to records by the UCI, 6900 Cervical Cancer new cases were discovered last year during the screening exercise carried out in the different parts of the country.
Dr Afred Jatho of Mulago Cancer Institute said that Cervical Cancer remains a significant public health as it is the leading cause of cancer related deaths among the different types of cancers in the country.
He said that the numbers could be more than that recorded last year because there are people who seek traditional healer’s services and not recorded anywhere.
Causes and Spreading
Cervical Cancer is caused by Human papilloma virus (HPV) and spread mainly through sex inter-course , and oral sex with lead to Cancer of throat and mouth. The acquisition of such cancer can be skin-to-skin contact of the genital area, anal or oral sex.
The monster according to Dr. Jatho does not only catch women but also men and this in men is termed as Peni Cancer.
It is the virus cause abnormal multiplication of the cells, which spread to other, parts of the body thus causing sickness and eventually death if not detected and treated well.
The doctor said that it takes between 15- 20 years before symptoms begin to show off in a patient
Prevention and treatment
Cervical Cancer can be prevented through Vaccination, making awareness, screening and early diagnosis; this can significantly reduce the burden of the disease.
Girls should avoid sex before marriage and people engaging in oral sex should stop it is we are able to reduce the spread and effects of the monster.
The UCI in collaboration with its key partners like Korea Foundation for International Health Care (KOFIH) is making substantial strides in the fight against Cervical Cancer through increased awareness, screening and early diagnosis especially in the districts such as Kampala and Mbarara because the prevalence is very high in these areas.
Catharine Namulindwa the Public Relations Officer of UCI said that Korea through its program of CANCAPUG has given Uganda a grant of US Dollar 3 million this is for a period of three years which commenced in 2023 in addition to the equipment being used for screening.