Cervical Cancer Screening — HopeScan Initiative

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet it remains a leading cause of cancer death among women in sub-Saharan West Africa. Nearly all cases are caused by persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV).

However, limited access to HPV vaccination, cervical cancer screening, and early treatment means many women are diagnosed only after the disease has progressed.

Without expanded prevention and early-detection programs, cervical cancer cases and deaths in the region are projected to rise significantly by 2050, despite that the disease is largely preventable through vaccination and routine screening.

The Growing Burden

In 2020, Africa recorded an estimated 120,000+ new cervical cancer cases and over 80,000 deaths, with the majority occurring in sub Saharan countries.
Sub Saharan Africa has some of the highest cervical cancer mortality rates in the world, driven by late diagnosis and limited access to treatment.
By 2040, projections indicate a 50–70% increase in cervical cancer incidence across Africa, driven by population growth and persistent gaps in HPV vaccination and screening.
By 2050, demographic trends suggest that several sub Saharan countries may see incidence nearly double compared with 2020 levels if prevention and screening programs are not scaled.
Five year prevalence is rising, meaning more women living with cervical cancer, often without adequate follow up or access to curative treatment.

Key Challenges

Low HPV vaccination coverage: Many countries have limited or no national HPV vaccination programs.
Limited screening access: VIA (visual inspection with acetic acid), HPV testing, and Pap smears are not widely available, especially in rural areas.
Late stage diagnosis: Most women present with advanced disease due to low awareness, stigma, and lack of routine screening.
Diagnostic and treatment delays: Limited access to colposcopy, biopsy, pathology, and radiotherapy leads to poor outcomes.
Financial and geographic barriers: High out of pocket costs and long travel distances prevent timely care.
Weak data systems: Limited cancer registry coverage makes planning and resource allocation difficult.

Advancing Early Detection Through Cervical Cancer Screening Programs

HopeScan is advancing global cervical cancer prevention through scalable screening programs, HPV testing access, and strengthened diagnostic pathways. By combining patient navigation, provider training, and community education, we improve early detection, reduce barriers to care, and advance health equity for underserved populations.