About 700 Rwandan Women Diagnosed With Cervical Cancer Each Year

Around 700 Rwandan women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year, making it one of the most common cancers affecting women after breast cancer.

The disease also accounts for one in every six cancer-related deaths in the country.

This was announced by the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) during the launch of a nationwide cervical cancer screening campaign on November 17, 2025.

Rising Number of Cervical Cancer Cases

Cervical cancer cases have steadily increased over the years.

In 2007, Rwanda recorded 633 cases of the disease.

By 2022, the number had risen sharply to 5,263 cases.

Between 2016 and 2022, cervical cancer claimed the lives of 747 women.

Rwanda Targets Elimination by 2027

Dr. François Uwinkindi, head of the Non-Communicable Diseases Division at RBC, said the government aims to eliminate cervical cancer in Rwanda by 2027.

He explained that elimination depends on three key pillars.

These include vaccinating girls aged 12 to 17, regularly screening women aged 30 to 50, and ensuring timely treatment for those diagnosed.

Low Screening Rates Remain a Challenge

Dr. Uwinkindi noted that cervical cancer screening remains a major challenge.

He said only 30 percent of eligible women currently undergo screening.

Rwanda aims to raise this figure to 70 percent by 2027, in line with World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations.

High HPV Vaccination Coverage Achieved

Rwanda launched its HPV vaccination program in 2011 for girls aged 12 to 15.

The program has achieved a 90 percent coverage rate, meeting WHO targets.

As a result, the main concern now lies with women over the age of 30 who were not vaccinated.

Free Screening and Treatment Available

Dr. Uwinkindi said the ongoing campaign focuses on women aged 30 to 49.

Screening services are free of charge at all health centers nationwide.

Women who test positive can receive treatment, as equipment and specialists are available across referral hospitals and cancer treatment centers.

Causes and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

The virus often shows no symptoms until the disease becomes advanced.

Common symptoms include abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual discharge, and foul-smelling vaginal fluids.

HPV can be transmitted through sexual contact and poor hygiene practices.

Early Detection Saves Lives

Euloge Nzabonankira, a cervical cancer screening and treatment specialist, said early detection leads to full recovery.

He explained that pre-cancerous lesions can be treated before developing into cancer.

Even patients diagnosed at advanced stages can receive supportive care.

Public Awareness Still Needed

Mugwaneza Aliane, one of the women who underwent screening, said many women fear the process due to misinformation.

She emphasized that screening is not painful and helps women understand their health better.

Health workers have begun registering women aged 30 and above, as well as women aged 25 living with HIV, to ensure full coverage.