More than 5,000 women in five administrative regions stand to benefit from HPV education and screening through a partnership between the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI) and the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA).
The project titled Empowering communities- HPV education and screening for indigenous and under-resourced populations in Guyana will see women in Regions 1, 4, 7, 8 and 9 being able to access HPV, Pap smear, and VIA screening.
According to statement issued by the GRPA, the goal is to raise awareness about cervical cancer and reduce the prevalence of HPV in remote communities where healthcare access is limited.
Keon Smith Director of GRPA has said that the agency is thrilled to launch this initiative, a vital step in empowering women in the hinterland and under-resourced populations with the knowledge and tools they need to detect cancer early. Early detection saves lives, and by providing accessible resources and education, which they hope will reduce the impact of cancer
The release said thirty peer educators have been trained to support the HPV education while another 50 healthcare workers will be equipped to carry out the necessary screenings.
The Responsible Parenthood association will also be working closely with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders so as to ensure that the program is in line with the national health priorities.
Candacia Phillips, Coordinator of the GGI said the project goes beyond the immediate outcomes, as it is about creating lasting impact. By empowering individuals to take control of their health, they are establishing a long-term framework for progress.
The world Health Organisation has said that only 1 in 10 women in Guyana have been careened for cervical cancer in the last five years. Additionally, recent data from the Ministry of Health indicated that in 2022 cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in Guyana with HPV remaining the leading cause of cervical cancer among women.
The Greater Guyana Initiative is a US$100 million, 10-year investment made by the Stabroek Block co-venturers – ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited. It is aimed at developing the local workforce, building human capacity, enhancing education, and improving healthcare, aimed at promoting sustainable economic diversification in Guyana.