Article By: Diana Motsu
Misconceptions surrounding cervical cancer are contributing to the increasing number of preventable deaths among women across Africa.
This concerning issue was brought to light by Karen Nakawala Chilowa, Founder & Executive Director of the Teal Sisters Foundation and also Cervical cancer survivor, during an interview with Gabz FM News at the Roche Africa Press Day held in Cape Town recently .Chilowa emphasized the critical importance of women making cervical cancer screening a routine part of their healthcare, stressing that early detection is crucial for saving lives.
She addressed several widespread myths surrounding cervical cancer, particularly the harmful belief that it mainly affects promiscuous women or those living with HIV/AIDS. Chilowa explained that these misconceptions are significantly hindering efforts to raise awareness and promote regular screening.
She also highlighted how such myths contribute to stigma, preventing women from seeking the preventive care they need. Furthermore, Chilowa pointed out the broader cultural challenge of discussing sexual health openly in many African communities, where conversations about such topics are often considered taboo.
She further called for a shift in attitudes, advocating for more open dialogue and education about the disease in order to dispel these harmful misconceptions and ultimately save more lives.
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