‘Over 3 thousand deaths due to cervical cancer in Malawi’

Malawi faces a significant cervical cancer burden, with approximately 3,000 deaths annually, ranking second globally in incidence and first in mortality rates.

To combat this, the country will launch a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine campaign from October 27 to 31, targeting girls aged 9-18 years.

HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer.

Malawi has one of the highest rates of cervical cancer worldwide, with 42.8 cases per 100,000 people.

The country records around 3,000 deaths annually due to cervical cancer.

Malawi’s cervical cancer screening coverage is low, at 27% in 2015, with most cases diagnosed at late stages.

The HPV vaccine campaign aims to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer in Malawi.

According to Richard Mvula, spokesperson for the Lilongwe District Health Office, the cervical cancer situation in the country is “worrisome”.

Efforts to increase awareness and screening coverage are crucial to combating this health issue .