Katsina Launches Cervical Cancer Screening for Women

On Tuesday, a cervical cancer screening initiative was unveiled in Katsina State, Nigeria, through a partnership between the state government and SASHIN. The program, named "On Stop Katsina Cervical Cancer Screening Program," aims to prevent cervical cancer-related deaths among women by promoting early detection and timely treatment.

Hajiya Zulaihat Dikko Radda, the First Lady of Katsina State, announced that 500 eligible women will undergo comprehensive screenings, which will include HPV DNA tests, liquid-based cytology, vaginal microbiome analysis, and genetic research. Women diagnosed with pre-cancerous cervical lesions during the initiative will receive treatment sponsorship from the Federal Teaching Hospital Katsina.

Hajiya Radda reaffirmed her commitment to improving access to quality healthcare services for women and described the initiative as a landmark intervention in the fight against cervical cancer. Prof. Sophia Hilari Georg from the University of Miami emphasized that the program represents a transformative model for accelerating the elimination of cervical cancer across Africa.