Project Title
Implementing Cervical Cancer Screening Among Women Living with HIV in Ghana
Project Background
Cervical cancer is a significant health concern in Ghana, particularly for women living with HIV (WLHIV). Despite being largely preventable through regular screening and early treatment, cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer deaths among women in Africa. In Ghana:
- The incidence of cervical cancer is 29 per 100,000 women, four times higher than in the United States.
- The mortality rate is 28 per 100,000 women, approximately ten times higher than in the United States.
- Women living with HIV are six times more likely to develop cervical cancer.
Currently, routine cervical cancer screening is not integrated into HIV care in Ghana, creating a critical gap in healthcare provision for WLHIV.
Project Aim
This three-year project, funded by Expertise France Groupe AFD, aims to implement and evaluate the integration of cervical cancer screening into routine HIV care in Ghana.
The project will utilize HPV PCR testing, visual inspection of the cervix, and same-day treatment of precancerous lesions, all performed by trained nurses.
Project Implementation
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana (lead)
- National AIDS/STDs Control Program
- National TB Control Program
- Cervical Cancer Prevention and Training Centre, Catholic Hospital, Battor
Project Objectives
1.
Screening
Screen approximately 3,000 women living with HIV for cervical cancer using HPV PCR testing and visual inspection of the cervix.
2.
Screen & Treat
Implement a same-day “screen and treat” approach to minimize loss to follow-up.
3.
Training
Train over 30 nurses in cervical cancer screening techniques, including; HPV PCR testing using GeneXpert machines. – Visual inspection of the cervix using mobile colposcopy. – Treatment of early lesions using portable thermal ablation.
4.
Evaluate
Evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of integrating cervical cancer screening into routine HIV care.
5.
Framework
Develop a manual and framework document to guide the implementation of a future national cervical cancer screening program for WLHIV.
6.
Policy
Provide evidence to inform national policy on integrating cervical cancer screening into HIV care.
Project Timeline
Training and setup
Conducting comprehensive training programs and setting up necessary infrastructure.
Intensive screening and treatment
Carrying out large-scale screening efforts and implementing intensive treatment protocols.
Data analysis and national Framework
Performing thorough data analysis and developing a framework for a national-level program