Roche Diagnostics advocates early HPV testing for women

Roche Diagnostics has said early diagnosis through Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing could alleviate financial pressures on families and healthcare systems, enabling women to remain active contributors to their families and economies.

According to Allan Pamba, executive vice president, Diagnostics, Africa at Roche Diagnostics, investing in HPV screening is crucial for both moral and economic reasons.

“When a primary caregiver falls victim to cervical cancer, the entire family system collapses, having a ripple effect on local economies,” Pamba said in a statement on Thursday.

The healthcare provider which specialises in cancer, cardiac health, infectious diseases, women’s health and diabetes management says its call for HPV testing comes as “we observe Cervical Cancer Awareness Month”.

Read also: How safe is HPV vaccination for girls?

It says while the disease is preventable, its devastating impacts on women in Sub-Saharan Africa have been devastating, leading to the cause of death among women in the region.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has set ambitious targets to change this narrative. By 2030, the WHO aims to achieve 90 per cent of girls vaccinated against HPV, 70 per cent of women screened by age 35 and 45 and 90 per cent of women with cervical disease receiving treatment.

“Women are the backbone of African families and economies, comprising 50 per cent of the agricultural sector labour force, powering over 50 per cent of SMEs, and supporting families.

“However, they face disproportionate health risks, including cervical cancer caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV),” it said.

According to the statement, the healthcare firm said traditional pap smear testing has limitations, including low sensitivity and the need for frequent testing.

In contrast, HPV-DNA testing with self-collection kits offers a game-changing alternative.

“This innovative approach empowers women to take control of their cervical health, collecting samples in the privacy of their own homes.”

Pamba emphasised that governments, policymakers, and healthcare providers must join forces to prioritise diagnostics and drive equitable access to HPV testing and treatment.

“When women thrive, so do their communities,” Pamba said.