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I am an HIV Positive Cervical Cancer Survivor – Rebecca Siambwati

Zambian Cancer Society/Facebook

Jan 9, 2025, 13:20

I am an HIV Positive Cervical Cancer Survivor – Rebecca Siambwati

Zambian Cancer Society posted on LinkedIn:

“I am an HIV Positive Cervical Cancer Survivor.

Popularly known as Aunty Rebecca, a 69-year-old Zambian Cancer Society volunteer, peer educator and counsellor, Mrs. Rebecca Siambwati, knows first-hand what it is to like to live with two chronic diseases. In 1999, she tested positive for HIV and has been on Anti-Retroviral Therapy since 2000.

Aunty Rebecca first went for cervical cancer screening to show herself as an example to the people she was educating on HIV/AIDS and cancer screening in her community. A LEEP procedure (a method that uses electric current passed through a thin wire loop to remove abnormal tissue) was carried out. The result revealed that she had stage 2b cervical cancer.

She states that due to the stigma, myths and misconceptions about cervical cancer some of her friends and relatives distanced themselves from her because they believed cervical cancer was contagious. Despite the discrimination and isolation she persevered. Aunty Rebecca’s treatment was successful, and she has been cancer free since 2010!

Her message to all women in Zambia is that they should go for screening. She also stresses one main point to cancer patients especially those who are HIV positive: ‘I was like you. But here I am. I am a living example that there is HOPE.’

In the video is Aunty Rebecca Siambwati.

Story and video credit: Ellen Banda-Aaku.”

Watch Further.

UICC shared this post on LinkedIn, adding:

“Thank you to UICC Member, the Zambian Cancer Society, for sharing Rebecca Siambwati’s powerful story. As a cervical cancer survivor living with HIV, her experience highlights the importance of screening, early detection, and people-centred care.

This World Cancer Day on 4 February, let’s share stories to inspire others, break the silence, and raise awareness.

Share yours here.”