The Association of Women from Senegal's Ministry of African Integration, Foreign Affairs, and Senegalese Abroad has called for a culture of cervical cancer prevention. On October 29, the group organized a sensitization day on the disease, which included a conference on "All Women Engaging for Future Generations Without Cervical Cancer." The event aimed to prioritize women's health and promote a culture of prevention, information, and solidarity within the ministry.
Fatou Mbow Ndiaye, president of the Association of Women, emphasized that cervical cancer is a significant public health issue. She encouraged women to get informed, screened, and treated early, stating that the disease can be prevented in many cases through vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV), regular screening, and early treatment. Ndiaye also noted that lack of information, fear of diagnosis, and misconceptions can prevent women from getting screened on time.
The Association of Women aims to spread awareness and encourage women to take care of their health without fear or guilt. Ndiaye urged women to become relays of sensitization within their communities, sharing accurate information and supporting those affected by the disease. She highlighted the importance of communication, particularly during October's "Pink October" campaign, which focuses on breast and cervical cancer awareness.
Gorgui Ciss, secretary-general of the Ministry of African Integration, Foreign Affairs, and Senegalese Abroad, emphasized the importance of information in saving lives. He stated that prevention is the best ally in the fight against cervical cancer and expressed hope that the initiative would contribute to a culture of prevention and solidarity within the ministry.
Dr. Cheikh Diop, a gynecologist-obstetrician, noted that cervical cancer is an avoidable disease. However, in Senegal, 70% of women with cervical cancer die due to late diagnosis resulting from a lack of accurate information. Dr. Diop stressed that everyone has a role to play in raising awareness and promoting screening and vaccination among young girls.
The event was part of the Association of Women's efforts to prioritize women's health and well-being. Ndiaye and other speakers encouraged women to take action and make cervical cancer prevention a shared culture. They also emphasized the importance of solidarity and support for women affected by the disease.
The Ministry of African Integration, Foreign Affairs, and Senegalese Abroad's initiative aims to contribute to the global effort to combat cervical cancer. By promoting awareness, screening, and prevention, the Association of Women hopes to make a positive impact on women's health in Senegal.
Key points
- The Association of Women from Senegal's Ministry of African Integration calls for a culture of cervical cancer prevention.
- Cervical cancer is an avoidable disease through vaccination, screening, and early treatment.
- Lack of information and misconceptions hinder women's access to cervical cancer screening and treatment.
