About 98% of cervical cancer cases linked to HPV

Patience Makwele

An estimated 98% of cervical cancer cases in Namibia are linked to persistent infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), prompting renewed calls for greater uptake of HPV vaccination and routine cervical screening as the country marks National Cancer Awareness Week.

The Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) said cervical cancer remains the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among Namibian women despite being largely preventable through early vaccination, regular screening and timely treatment of pre-cancerous lesions.

CAN chief executive officer Rolf Hansen said the disease continues to devastate families across the country, stressing that every woman deserves the opportunity to live a healthy and productive life.