Cervical cancer is the number one cancer among women in sub-Saharan Africa and this is the only region in the world where incidence of this cancer is increasing. Dr Rengaswamy Sankaranarayanan discusses the need for prevention programmes, increased early detection rates and surgery and radiotherapy for patients in these countries. 

Introduction of HPV testing and vaccination programmes could have a major impact on cervical cancer rates. Although cost has previously been a barrier preventing wide scale vaccinations, the Global Alliance for Vaccination and Immunisation are now offering this vaccination at subsidised price to countries with a low Gross National Income (GNI). Dr Sankaranarayanan talks about the opportunity this provides to governments in sub-Saharan countries and responds to criticisms of the vaccine.