Malawi is among countries with a high burden of cervical cancer. Efforts by other stakeholders in complementing government efforts in reducing the burden; therefore, remain integral. Our News Analyst LLOYD CHITSULO speaks to Women Coalition Against Cancer (Wocaca) executive director MAUD MWAKASUNGULA on the topic. Excerpts; Q How is Wocaca complementing government efforts in promoting early detection of cancer in women?
A Among other interventions, we strengthen awareness, demand creation, and access to early screening, particularly cervical and breast cancer. Many women in Malawi, especially in rural areas, are not fully aware of the dangers of late detection or the services available in government health facilities. Wocaca bridges this gap by running a continuous sensitisation campaign helping women and girls understand causes of cancer, why screening matters, and where services could be accessed. Through these efforts Wocaca helps more women take advantage of government-led programmes such as visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA). Wocaca also brings services closer to women who may be unable to travel long distances for care. Through partnerships with local health centres and community leaders, more women are screened and supported to seek treatment early. Another important area is capacity-building. We train community volunteers, health workers and traditional and opinion leaders to empower them on cancer.
Q What should be done to lessen the burden of cervical cancer?
A It requires strong commitment to prevention, early detection and timely treatment. Improving Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage is a first priority. The vaccine protects girls before infection occurs, making it the most effective prevention tool. Malawi must continue scaling up routine vaccinations for girls aged nine to 15 until national coverage reaches the target of at least 90 percent. Secondary prevention through screening must also expand. VIA remains a useful screening method, but we should increasingly adopt HPV DNA testing, which offers higher accuracy and early detection. Screening services must be widely available in more health facilities so that women do not have to travel far. Continuous public education is equally key, because many women do not seek screening until symptoms are advanced.
Q What is your view on making women more aware about cancer and how best to prevent the disease?
A We believe strongly that empowering women with accurate information is the foundation of cancer prevention. Many women do not seek screening because they lack understanding, many are influenced by myths, or face cultural pressures that discourage open discussion of reproductive health. Therefore, education helps women make informed decisions, recognise symptoms, demand services and encourage their daughters and families to take preventive measures such as HPV vaccination.
Rather than being passive recipients of health services, empowered women contribute directly to reducing the cancer burden at family and community levels.
Q How does the threat of cancer stand on Malawian female classes?
A It affects all women, but the level of risk and outcomes differ depending on location, income, and access to health services. Rural women and girls face higher vulnerability because they often live far from screening facilities and many lack financial means to seek medical care. Women in urban areas, despite having better access to health services, sometimes respond more slowly to screening messages because of busy lifestyles and competing priorities. These differences highlight the need for targeted strategies that address the unique challenges faced by each group so that no woman is left behind.
Q Compared to other countries in the sub-Sahara region, how is Malawi faring in terms of prevention and making treatment easier?
A Malawi has made progress in prevention but still faces major systemic challenges that affect access to treatment. The introduction of the HPV vaccine programme in 2019 was a key milestone, and recent catch-up campaigns have shown that high coverage is achievable. The establishment of the Malawi National Cancer Centre also demonstrates government's commitment to improving cancer care. However, Malawi still has one of the highest cervical cancer incidence rates globally. Many health facilities face shortages of trained staff, essential equipment and sometimes experience stock-outs of medical supplies. These challenges limit women's ability to receive early diagnosis and proper treatment.
Q What are some of Wocaca's achievements?
A Since its establishment in 2013, Wocaca has reached thousands of rural women and girls with education and mobilisation campaigns to help them understand cancer, prevention and the importance of early screening. We have also secured partnerships for projects that support community cancer champions, patient support interventions, and advocacy initiatives. Our work in community-based support groups has created spaces where women living with cancer can share experiences, receive encouragement, and be guided through their treatment journey. We have also been active in working with national, regional, and international networks to influence policy and promote patient dignity and improved access to care. These achievements reflect our commitment to ensuring that women in all parts of Malawi benefit from improved cancer services.