January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and therefore a reminder to focus on your own health care. Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide, almost 100 percent of which is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Regular smear tests and the HPV vaccination are essential to prevent this type of cancer. The most important examination for the early detection of cancer is the Pap test during a gynecological examination. With the help of the cell smear from the cervix, cell changes or precancerous stages can be detected early and treatment can be initiated before secondary diseases such as cervical cancer develop. According to a study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer in 2022, Tanzania was one of the seven countries with the highest mortality rate from cervical carcinoma in the world.

As part of the community healthprogram financed by Artemed Stiftung in the catchment area of St. Walburg's Hospital in Nyangao, Tanzania, education about HPV infection therefore plays an important role. The specialist staff explain the causes and development of cervical cancer to the villagers, explain preventative measures and carry out early detection examinations directly on site in the villages. Together with the gynaecological team at Artemed Stiftung , work is being carried out to optimize and professionalize prevention and the necessary regular examinations, training courses are being held, urgently needed material for the tests is being purchased and a database is being created to evaluate developments.