On 29th March 2026, MAVEG Care Foundation, in collaboration with Isecorm Medical and Fertility Centre and Essence Clinical and Medical Laboratory, successfully organized its maiden free cervical cancer screening programme at the Tantra Hills Assemblies of God Church, Ghana.
The initiative, led by Madam Mavis Gyapong Boateng, was aimed at providing free HPV screening for women, driven by her firm belief that early detection saves lives. The HPV rapid test kits were generously provided by Essence Clinic and Medical Laboratory, with testing led by Mr. Winfred Apaloo and supported by a team of dedicated midwives.
As part of the programme, the lead medical practitioner, Dr. Isaac Secorm of Isecorm Medical and Fertility Centre, delivered an informative presentation on cervical cancer. He explained that the disease is primarily caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is commonly transmitted through sexual contact.
He noted that while HPV infection is widespread, the risk increases with multiple sexual partners. Importantly, he emphasized that the progression from HPV infection to cervical cancer often takes several years, making early detection and timely medical intervention critical. He also advised women to pay attention to warning signs such as genital warts and to seek prompt medical care when necessary.
In an interview with Prismore Writes Global, Madam Mavis Gyapong Boateng shared that the inspiration behind the initiative stems from her personal experience. Having detected her condition early and successfully undergone treatment, she is now committed to creating awareness and helping other women know their status in good time.
The screening exercise recorded significant success, with over 50 women screened. The Foundation is now seeking support from individuals and organizations to expand its outreach and facilitate access to free HPV vaccination for women in Ghana, where the cost of vaccination remains a major barrier.
Despite increasing awareness of cervical cancer in Ghana, knowledge about HPV the virus responsible for nearly all cases remains limited. Screening rates are still below 10% in many communities. Globally, approximately 85% of cervical cancer deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, largely due to late detection and inadequate access to preventive healthcare services. It is important to note that HPV infection is extremely common and unrelated to morality or lifestyle; most individuals will be exposed to the virus at some point in their lives.
Unfortunately, several harmful misconceptions continue to discourage women from seeking life-saving care, including beliefs that:
• HPV vaccination causes infertility
• Screening procedures are dangerous
• Cervical cancer is a punishment or affects only promiscuous women
These myths are not only false but dangerous.
The HPV vaccine is safe, effective, and approved by the World Health Organization. It protects against the strains of HPV responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases. Similarly, screening methods such as Pap smears, HPV testing, and visual inspection are proven to save lives by detecting abnormalities early, when they are most treatable.
It is against this backdrop and inspired by lived experience that MAVEG Care Foundation was established. The Foundation’s mission goes beyond raising awareness; it is committed to saving lives through education, prevention, early detection, and improved access to healthcare. By working with young women, families, schools, healthcare providers, and communities, MAVEG Care aligns its efforts with Sustainable Development Goals 3, 4, 5, and 17.
This initiative represents more than a health intervention, it is a movement to replace fear with facts, stigma with science, and loss with prevention. Cervical cancer should not be a death sentence. With sustained partnerships and support, it can become a disease of the past in Ghana and beyond.
Every girl protected.
Every woman informed.
Every life given a fair chance.
#PreventiveHealth #CervicalCancerAwareness #EarlyDetection #HPV #Vaccination