Kaoma District Hospital has from January to March, 2024 recorded 20 positive cases of cervical cancer, a development that has raised serious concerns among the health fraternity. 

Kaoma District Hospital Cancer Screening Officer In-Charged, Zili Mudenda disclosed to ZANIS in an interview that positive cervical cancer cases are escalating in the district. 

Ms. Mudenda attributed the escalating numbers to lack of knowledge about sexual health among women in rural areas and also the engagement of traditional practices such as Labia Minora Elongation (LME).

“LME disrupts the normal functioning of the female genitalia and it also requires the use of different kinds of herbs which can cause recurrent mycosis leading to cervical cancer.

“Most women tend to use herbs to treat mycosis not knowing it only worsens the condition which again can cause cervical cancer,” she said.

Ms. Mudenda called on women to stay away from traditional practices such as LME to make men happy at the expense of their lives.

She has appealed to men to come on board and support their partners by encouraging them to go for regular medical check-ups so that they are aware of the importance of safe and consensual practices.

“When men are actively involved, it helps create a supportive and understanding environment for women to prioritise their sexual health,” Ms. Mudenda said.

She added that her department has since embarked on a community sensitisation exercise to educate women on the importance of regular medical check-ups, signs and symptoms of cervical cancer so that they can promptly seek medical assistance. 

Ms. Mudenda however, revealed that it was challenging for some women to attend meetings when their spouses are not aware hence the need to have them on board so that women can have easier access to health services. 

She also mentioned that they train community based volunteers (CBVs) who distribute condoms and oral contraceptives for family planning.

Ms. Mudenda has since advised women to maintain one faithful partner, use condoms, avoid the use of herbs and bath at least twice a day and regularly change sanitary pads during menstruation to prevent infections.

“Women should frequently be reminded that their sexual health is their full responsibility and not a man’s role,” she advised.