Anusree Prabhakaran, Former Research Assistant at Manipal Academy of Higher Education, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Today is the World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action.The WHO has set a global target: 70% of women worldwide should be screened for cervical cancer by 2030. Countries across the world, including India are working to achieve this goal.
Recently, I came across an incident from a woman in a rural area that made me think deeply.
She had heard about a cervical cancer screening camp being organized in her area. She wanted to go, but was scared. She discussed it with a few neighbours, but none were willing to join her. Still, she gathered all her courage and went ahead for the screening.
Days later, when her results came, the health workers could not reach out to her. So they contacted one of her neighbours and informed them that this lady’s cancer test results were out and she should consult a doctor. Hearing this from her neighbour, she was shocked. Not because she had to consult a doctor, but because she received such sensitive information through the neighbour. Her immediate fear was, ‘Will my neighbour tell others? Will people start talking about me?’ She told me she would not go for any such camps again.
Her privacy had been unintentionally breached.
This incident is a reminder that:
- Women already cross many emotional, social, and cultural hurdles to attend a cancer screening.
- Their confidentiality must be protected with the highest sensitivity and respect.
- Trust in the health system is built not just through services, but through dignified communication.
On this day of action, as we move toward the 70% screening goal, let’s also strengthen the systems around it, ensuring that every woman who bravely comes forward feels safe, respected, and protected.”
More posts about Cervical Cancer.