​Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting South African women and remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the country. Yet, it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. The key to beating cervical cancer lies in prevention - through vaccination, regular screening, and early treatment.
The disease is primarily caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), especially strains 16 and 18. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that spreads through unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, early sexual activity, and even skin-to-skin contact with infected areas. Women living with HIV are particularly vulnerable, often facing earlier infection and diagnosis between the ages of 15 and 49.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 95% of cervical cancer cases are linked to persistent HPV infection. The WHO also highlights that women living with HIV are six times more likely to develop cervical cancer than those without HIV. This makes prevention efforts even more critical in high-risk populations.
HPV vaccination is a powerful shield against cervical cancer. Girls between the ages of 9 and 15 can receive the vaccine, which protects against the most dangerous strains of the virus. The WHO recommends vaccinating girls before they become sexually active, ideally between ages 9 and 14. This early protection significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer later in life.
Screening is another life-saving tool. Pap smears detect abnormal cervical cells before they become cancerous. The procedure is quick, painless, and available free of charge at public health clinics for women aged 30 and above, and for HIV-positive women from the age of 20. 
Recognising symptoms such as bleeding between periods, pain or bleeding during intercourse, unusual vaginal discharge, heavier or longer menstrual periods, and bleeding after menopause can also lead to early diagnosis and treatment.
The WHO has launched a global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem. Its targets for 2030 include vaccinating 90% of girls by age 15, screening 70% of women by ages 35 and 45, and ensuring 90% of women diagnosed with cervical disease receive treatment. If these goals are met, the WHO estimates that 74 million new cases could be prevented, and 62 million lives saved by the end of the century.
Working towards eliminating cervical cancer, the Gauteng Department of Health is currently running a province-wide HPV vaccination campaign aimed at protecting young girls from cervical cancer. The initiative, which began on 8 September and runs until 7 November 2025, targets girls aged 9 to 15 in Grade 5, as well as outstanding Grade 6 and 7 learners who missed previous doses. 
Vaccinations are being administered at both public and private schools, including special schools, using the Cervarix vaccine, which is proven to be safe and highly effective against HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for over 70% of cervical cancer cases.
Cervical cancer is preventable. Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting vaccinated, screening and ensuring early treatment.