Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is the number one cause of cancer-related deaths among women of reproductive age in Guatemala. Worldwide, 470,000 new cases of cervical cancer are detected each year and more than 200,000 women die annually of this preventable illness. The vast majority of deaths occur in developing countries, where comprehensive screening programs, which have been shown to reduce mortality by up to 90%, simply do not exist.
In Guatemala, cervical cancer is responsible for over 16% of all cancer-related deaths, compared to 4% for breast cancer. Cervical cancer accounts for nearly 60% of female cancer cases attended at the National Cancer Institute – far more than breast, skin, ovarian, and stomach cancers combined.
Research shows that cervical cancer is caused by sexually-transmitted infection of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Many Guatemalan women have increased risk for cervical cancer due to factors such as limited and irregular screening, multiple pregnancies, early initiation of sexual relationships, poor nutrition, and unfaithful partners who are more likely to transmit HPV.
Cervical cancer is easily detectable and can be treated when diagnosed early. Through regular screening of reproductive-age women, hundreds of lives can be saved in Guatemala each year. WINGS has been providing cervical cancer detection and treatment services since 2001. Our program focuses on low-income communities, where access to regular health services is limited. 25% of the women attending WINGS’ cervical cancer clinics have never been screened before, and some walk for many miles from remote villages to reach our services. During screenings, we also provide women with opportunities to discuss their sexual and reproductive health and family planning needs. Our staff members provide references to WINGS-subsidized family planning services when requested.
Because many women are not aware of the risks of cervical cancer or methods for prevention, WINGS also conducts outreach to expand knowledge and increase demand for screenings. Women who attend WINGS’ talks or clinics are encouraged to share information about cervical cancer with their friends, relatives, and neighbors.
The Cervical Cancer Detection and Treatment Program has expanded rapidly and now serves villages in the departments of Escuintla, Sacatepéquez, Chimaltenango, Suchitepéquez, and Santa Rosa.