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Imagine a world without cervical Cancer
About us
Cervical cancer is a significant global health challenge, with a disproportionate impact on low- and middle-income countries, like India. The Women Empowerment-Cancer Awareness Nexus (WE-CAN) project aims to address the barriers and challenges faced by low-income women in India in accessing cervical cancer screening.
WE-CAN seeks to empower women by addressing sociocultural, economic, and healthcare system challenges related to cervical cancer. The project’s objectives are to increase health literacy, reduce stigma, and enhance cervical cancer screening uptake among low-income women through an evidence-based intervention.
Cervical Cancer in India
Cervical cancer’s devastating impact, especially in India, demands innovative solutions. With 30% of global deaths attributed to this disease occurring in India, the need for accessible and effective screening is critical.
Cervical cancer ranks second among cancer-related causes of death for Indian women aged 15-44. Limited access to the Papanicolaou (Pap) test, a primary screening tool in affluent nations, contributes to a mere 19% screening coverage in India.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer. HPV self-sampling is a user-friendly, cost-effective alternative to the Pap/VIA test for screening. It can be self-administered. Globally accepted, it has demonstrated effectiveness comparable to traditional methods, offering automated, error-resistant screening.
Overcoming Barriers
Despite its promise, HPV self-sampling faces challenges like misconceptions, STI stigmas, and low literacy. Addressing these barriers is crucial for its successful implementation.
A Vision for Change
HPV self-sampling is more than a screening tool; it’s an empowerment gateway. By engaging under-screened women, it has the potential to significantly reduce cervical cancer mortality, transforming lives and enhancing overall well-being.
