THE UNITED STATES EMBASSY

Windhoek, Namibia Public Affairs Office

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Amanda Nace

December 15, 2014 CDC-Namibia

Phone: 081-140-3192

U. S. Embassy Donates Cervical Cancer Screening Equipment

U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton officially handed over eight new cancer screening

units to the Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services, Honorable Petrina Haingura

as “I choose to live” was repeatedly echoed by the crowd at the Health Walk for Cancer

in Katatura, Windhoek on Friday, December 12. Early detection and treatment of many

cancers, such as cervical cancer, directly result in lives saved. However, critical to

preventing and treating the disease is ensuring the availability of screening tools and

“debunking the myths on cancer,” the theme of the day.

In July, the Namibian government launched Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA)

and treatment by Cryotherapy. Also in July, the United States government supported

training of nurses and doctors on the “Screen and Treat” technique for cervical cancer

using the VIA and Cryotherapy. This means that in a single visit, women will be shown

their cervix on the monitor, see the abnormal cells, and immediately receive treatment.

Ambassador Daughton said, “Scientific evidence indicates that women who are HIV

positive have a high risk of developing cervical cancer.” Consequently, he explained, the

United States government, through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief

(PEPFAR), provides resources for cervical cancer prevention and control in Namibia and

the U.S.-donated colposcopy units will be utilized in the regions with the highest HIV

prevalence.

Dr. Thandeka Mazibuko, a cancer specialist from South Africa, also spoke at the event

highlighting the need for community mobilization and education about cancer. She

encouraged the many young children in the audience to act as change agents and talk to

their mothers, aunts, and other family members about taking responsibility for their

health.

Katutura Central Councillor Ambrosius Kandjii publicly thanked Ambassador Daughton

for his participation in the event, noting evidence of the Ambassador’s commitment to the

community through his presence at the World AIDS Day event and the Health Walk for

Cancer.

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