Catch it early and tackle this deadly cancer

Muscat: Oman joined the global fight against cervical cancer by launching the National Study for Early Detection of Cervical Cancer.

Cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most prevalent cancer among women of all age groups in Oman, and the third most prevalent among women aged 15 to 44 years. Annually, around 88 new cases are identified, resulting in an estimated 50 fatalities in 2020, according to National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The national study was launched at an event presided over by Dr Said bin Hareb al Lamki, Under-Secretary of the Ministry for Health.

Dr Badriya bint Mohsen al Rashidiyah of the Directorate General of Primary Health Care, expressed the significance of the study, stating, "Today, we are launching a study to determine the prevalence of cervical cancer and papillomavirus. This study is aligned with the Sultanate of Oman's commitment to the international strategy in combating cervical cancer and will be implemented across all governorates." The study holds tremendous importance as its results will provide crucial information regarding the prevalence of cervical cancer among Omanis, as well as the risk factors associated with the infection. By participating in the study, women can understand their health status and receive prompt treatment if the test results are positive.

During her speech, Dr Lamia Mahmoud from the Regional Office of the World Health Organization emphasised the significance of addressing cervical cancer as a public health problem. "The World Health Organization recognises cervical cancer as a critical issue that countries must address.

In 2020, the World Health Assembly, the highest decision-making body of the organisation, adopted the international strategy to end cervical cancer. This strategy, endorsed by numerous countries, including the Sultanate of Oman, focuses on three pillars: prevention through vaccination against papillomavirus, early detection through cervical smear tests, and appropriate treatment for diagnosed cases of cervical cancer." The Ministry of Health urged women aged between 25 and 49 to participate in the study, highlighting the opportunity it presents for early detection of cervical cancer. Additionally, the study aims to identify any abnormal changes in cervical cells that may develop into cancer, enabling the prompt initiation of treatment. By detecting the disease at an early stage, women can avoid the complications associated with advanced cervical cancer.