Cervical cancer in Ethiopia
More than 36 million women in Ethiopia are at risk of developing cervical cancer. Lack of awareness, limited access to services and scarce resources mean that most cancer cases are detected late. Treatment is often unaffordable and the waiting list is just too long.
But, with cervical screening and a simple procedure lasting less than ten minutes, it is detectable, treatable and preventable.
Our partner Wings of Healing provide free screening and treatment for women across Addis Ababa. Their particular focus is reaching the women who face the biggest barriers in accessing healthcare services. To ensure the sustainability of their project, they also work to equip health centres with medical supplies, train healthcare professionals and work to raise awareness about the causes, risks, symptoms, prevention and treatment of cervical cancer.
"I am not alone in this journey"
When Munira’s worst fears were confirmed, she was not alone.
Raising her children almost entirely on her own and trying to make ends meet through her farm work, Munira ignored the spots of blood and pelvic pain – the first signs that something was wrong. As her symptoms worsened, her son helped her undertake the 215km long journey from her rural home to the hospital in Addis Ababa, where she learned she had cervical cancer.
from the team at Wings of Healing
“At the lowest point in my life and with a very dark future ahead of me, the team from Wings of Healing came with a cradle of hope. They explained well the situation, facilitated a CT scan, and covered the cost all the way. Things started to feel better.”
Munira’s cancer has not spread and with the support from WOH, she still has hope. “I don’t want to see my four daughters have a similar story. I advise all mothers not to ignore their symptoms, to be screened and treated early.”
Together, we are reaching more women. And these women are telling their friends, their daughters and nieces.
Please donate today, to help prevent cancer and save lives.
