Life Springs Parkland Hospital recently hosted a cervical cancer awareness event, offering 75 free screenings.

Experienced healthcare professionals were available to answer questions and educate attendees about the often-overlooked disease.

Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), almost all cervical cancer cases are linked to persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus transmitted through sexual contact.

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Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. In 2022, an estimated 660 000 women were diagnosed with the disease and about 350 000 died from it.

Speaking to the Springs Advertiser, gynaecologist Dr Clive Khoza explained that cervical cancer screening is done through a Pap smear.

“It’s a procedure that involves gently collecting cells from the cervix. A disposable speculum is used to widen the vaginal walls so the cervix is visible.

“A soft brush is then used to collect a sample of cells from the cervix. The collected cells are examined under a microscope to check for abnormal changes that could develop into cancer,” he said.

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Khoza said some women hesitate to undergo cervical cancer screening because they fear the procedure will be painful.

“While you may experience slight discomfort during the test, it is a quick procedure and is generally not painful,” he said.

He encouraged women who are sexually active to discuss cervical cancer screening with their healthcare provider.

“Cervical cancer screenings are crucial because they can detect precancerous cell changes before they develop into cancer.

“These screenings allow for early intervention and treatment, significantly increasing the chances of a full recovery,” Khoza said.