AMA Launches Cervical Cancer Awareness Drive

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has launched a month-long Cervical Cancer Awareness campaign aimed at boosting public education, expanding Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination for girls, and increasing screening services for women across the metropolis.
The initiative, coordinated by the Accra Metropolitan Health Directorate and promoted through social media platforms, will run until the end of January. It forms part of efforts to reduce the growing burden of cervical cancer, which continues to claim the lives of many Ghanaian women.
Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, underscored the importance of prevention, stressing that the campaign is a priority due to the persistent loss of lives to the disease. He encouraged women aged 25 and above to take advantage of the screening services being offered, noting that early detection of precancerous changes significantly improves treatment outcomes and saves lives.
Dr. Louisa Ademki Matey, Director of Health Services at the AMA, explained that the Directorate will intensify health education and service delivery throughout the campaign. She said the programme includes cervical cancer screening tests for women aged 25 and above, referrals for further care, and prompt treatment for those diagnosed with precancer or cancer. “Early action saves lives and improves health outcomes,” she emphasised.
The Mayor also highlighted HPV vaccination as a critical preventive measure. He announced that the Assembly is mobilising parents, schools, faith-based organisations, and community leaders to support the vaccination of girls aged 9 to 14 against HPV, which is recognised as the leading cause of cervical cancer.
Community sensitisation activities will be rolled out across Accra during the campaign period. These activities are designed to raise awareness of cervical cancer risks, promote preventive measures, and ensure that women and girls have access to timely, life-saving services.
The AMA says the cam