A total of 16,945 women in Arusha and Kilimanjaro regions have received cervical and breast cancer screening through mobile clinics. The screening was conducted by the East Africa Cancer Women’s Project, implemented by Aga Khan Health Services, Tanzania, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the President’s Office–Regional Administration and Local Government. This initiative aims to bring screening services closer to communities, particularly women in rural areas.
The mobile clinics provide cervical cancer screening using Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid, breast cancer screening, health education, and counselling. Dr. Sarah Maongezi, the project’s overall manager, stated that the mobile clinics have made it easier for women to access life-saving services before the disease reaches advanced stages. This approach helps reach more women, especially in areas where health services are not easily accessible.
Early screening is critical because many women develop precancerous changes without showing symptoms. Dr. Maongezi emphasized that many women come to hospital when the disease has reached advanced stages because early symptoms are often not visible. The project encourages women to come for screening early rather than waiting until they become sick. Early screening saves lives, and 130 women found to have early changes were referred to district and regional hospitals for further examination and treatment.
The project has focused on taking services to health centres and outreach locations closer to communities that are far from major hospitals, reducing barriers that prevent women from seeking timely care. According to 2024 national cancer statistics, Tanzania recorded 4,966 new cervical cancer cases and 3,011 deaths, while breast cancer accounted for 3,024 new cases and 1,492 deaths. Health experts say cervical cancer can largely be prevented through HPV vaccination, regular screening, and early treatment.
One of the beneficiaries of the mobile clinic is Ms. Mariam George, a mother of four and small business owner from Mirongoine Village in Arusha. She had repeatedly postponed screening because travelling to hospital meant losing a day’s income and leaving her family behind. After being screened closer to home and learning she had no signs of cancer, Mariam now encourages other women in her community to seek screening before symptoms appear.
The mobile clinics have made a significant impact in the regions, providing an opportunity for women to receive treatment before their conditions progressed. Dr. Maongezi stated that instead of women travelling to seek healthcare, the services are taken closer to them. This approach helps reach more women, especially in areas where health services are not easily accessible.
The East Africa Cancer Women’s Project aims to continue providing screening services to women in rural areas, reducing the risk of cervical and breast cancer. Key points include:
Key points
- 16,945 women screened through mobile clinics in Arusha and Kilimanjaro regions
- 130 women referred for further examination and treatment after showing early changes
- Mobile clinics provide cervical cancer screening, breast cancer screening, health education, and counselling
