A perspective on cervical cancer prevention and screening in Africa.

Abstract

Most of Africa carries a history of previous colonization. This, in part, is responsible for almost the entire continent being classified as low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) [1]. In this context, prevention and screening for cancer suffers the non-exclusive challenges of all LMICs. Low socio-economic status, large populations with widespread poverty, weak or underdeveloped health systems, a hugely competitive health environment with epidemics of HIV, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, malnutrition, wars and conflict, and-importantly for women's health-limited empowerment, information, and rights of women, are prominent on the continent [2]. Health policies are frequently absent, underdeveloped, or still under development [3]. Most countries in Africa have been identified as having a critical shortage of health workers [4]. Recent publications indicate that the economic status of most countries in Africa is declining, with even the three largest economies (Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt) being classified as LMICs [1]. Mention has to be made of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has drained resources in many countries.