KAMPALA- UGANDA, April 28, 2023: A groundbreaking study conducted by a team of researchers in Uganda has revealed startling findings on the burden and care-seeking practices for cervical cancer infections among women in selected communities.
This was after it was found out that the prevalence of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a virus associated with cervical cancer, was high among the target population, and having HIV was a necessary risk factor.
The study titled, ‘The burden and care-seeking practices of cervical cancer-related infections among people living with infections among people living with HIV in Uganda,’ has thus called for the need to allocate appropriate resources for cervical cancer prevention, treatment research, and control.
“We are further saying that Cervical cancer be accorded the same priority as HIV, malaria, Tuberculosis, and childhood immunizations,” says Dr. Harriet Nakigozi, who is the study’s Principle Investigator. The other members were; Dr. Susan Nabadda, Dr. Akiya Oyoo Charles, Dr. Carol Achola, Dr. Edward Lambert from the USA, and Mrs. Annet Nabaggala.
The study, yet to be published, and which was conducted in 15 public health facilities around Uganda between July 2019 and August 2021, was motivated by a desire to understand the burden and care-seeking practices for cervical cancer infections among women in Uganda, where there is limited knowledge and awareness about cervical cancer and limited access to cervical cancer screening services. The study’s target audience was women living with HIV aged 25 to 49 years and on antiretroviral therapy in selected communities in Uganda.
The Findings:
The study found that the prevalence of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) was high among the target population, and having HIV was a necessary risk factor for cervical cancer infections. Having more than one partner was highly associated with human papillomavirus infections.
HPV is a group of viruses that can cause various health problems in both men and women.
While HPV and cervical cancer are not the same thing, there is a strong link between them. HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that can cause changes to the cells of the cervix, which can lead to cervical cancer if left untreated. However, not all women who have HPV will develop cervical cancer.
From the findings, the study has proposed policy options to recognize cervical cancer as a new major public health concern in Uganda due to its high mortality rate, allocate appropriate resources for cervical cancer prevention, treatment, research, and control, and accord cervical cancer the same priority as HIV, malaria, tuberculosis, and childhood immunizations.
It has also proposed regular screening for cervical cancer, such as with a Pap smear or HPV test, which can help detect any abnormal changes early and prevent the development of cervical cancer. Vaccines are also available to help prevent HPV infection and the health problems it can cause.
Methods:
The study involved key informant interviews, focused discussions, and testing for Human Papilloma Virus using highly sensitive molecular devices to test DNA and RNA as well as linkage to care and treatment.
Significance:
Dr. Harriet Nakigozi’s study is an essential step toward improving the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer in Uganda. The findings of the study can be used to inform policy decisions and improve access to cervical cancer screening services in the country.
However, the study encountered several challenges, including a lack of enough funds, a language barrier, poor attitudes, myths, and misconceptions about cervical cancer infections in communities.
Cervical Cancer in Uganda
Cervical cancer is a significant health problem in Uganda, and the prevalence rate varies across different regions of the country.
According to the Uganda Cancer Institute, cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Uganda, accounting for about 50% of all cancer cases. The estimated incidence of cervical cancer in Uganda is approximately 3,500 new cases per year, with an estimated mortality rate of 2,400 deaths per year.
The prevalence of cervical cancer in Uganda is high due to several factors, including inadequate access to screening and treatment services, low levels of awareness about the disease, and limited resources for cancer prevention and control programs. The Uganda government and several non-governmental organizations are working to increase awareness and access to screening and treatment services to reduce the burden of cervical cancer in the country.
Who is Dr. Nakigozi?
Dr. Harriet Nakigozi is a highly accomplished research associate with Makerere University in Uganda, working under the early career researchers program. With an extensive educational background, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Laboratory Technology and a Master of Science in Biomedical Laboratory Technology, both from Makerere University. She has also earned a PhD in Public Health Policy from a prestigious university in the United States.
Dr . Harriet Nakigozi is a public health specialist working with Ministry of Health Department of National Health Laboratory and Diagnostic Services, a Graduate fellow of Management of Sustainable Health from Karolinska Institutet Sweden, Leadership and Management from the University of Washington, Health Systems Researcher, and Early Career Researcher from Dare Salam University and Makerere University. She has worked on some projects in HIV, TB, malaria, hepatitis, and other Evidence Based policy issues
In addition to her impressive academic credentials, Dr. Nakigozi holds a certificate in Epidemiology from the University of Missouri and Makerere University. Her diverse range of qualifications and experiences has enabled her to become a leading expert in her field, with a particular focus on promoting sustainable health practices in underprivileged communities.
Dr. Nakigozi is passionate about making a positive impact on global health, and her research work reflects this. She is dedicated to collaborating with others in her field to identify effective solutions to complex public health challenges, and to sharing her knowledge and expertise with others.
She can be reached by Phone Number 0782170337 and by Email Address harrietnaki@yahoo.com
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