Free Cervical Cancer Screening Programme Sees Strong Uptake Across SERHA Clinics

Efforts by the Government to expand access to free cervical cancer screening during April have yielded encouraging results, with several clinics within the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) surpassing their screening targets.

Health officials report increased public participation in both Pap smear testing and HPV vaccination initiatives introduced as part of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month activities. The programme aims to promote early detection and reduce the incidence of the disease among Jamaican women.

Speaking on the progress, Christopher Tufton noted that field teams have recorded a positive response from the public. He highlighted a recent outreach event where more than 100 individuals were screened, including HPV testing conducted at the Glen Vincent Clinic, one of the designated pilot sites.

Cervical cancer remains one of the leading cancers affecting women locally and globally. Health experts attribute the majority of cases to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is primarily spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. Early detection through routine screening significantly improves treatment outcomes.

According to SERHA data, 386 new cases of cervical cancer were recorded in Jamaica in 2020. In response, the Ministry of Health has expanded screening services across several health centres, offering free Pap smears and vaccination drives aimed at prevention.

Tufton also reported progress in the national HPV vaccination programme, revealing that approximately 20,000 doses were administered, achieving 81 per cent coverage in 2025. While the programme experienced disruptions due to Hurricane Melissa, recent promotional campaigns conducted in partnership with UNICEF have contributed to renewed momentum.

Medical professionals continue to stress the importance of early screening. Consultant obstetrician-gynaecologist Ian Bambury explained that cervical cancer is largely preventable and often linked to HPV exposure. He recommends that screening begin at age 21.

Additionally, consultant urologist Elon Thompson pointed to the risks HPV poses to males, including its association with penile cancer, underscoring the importance of vaccination among boys.

The HPV vaccine is currently offered to boys aged 9 to 14 and females aged 9 to 26. Health authorities say vaccination sessions also serve to educate communities on prevention and the need for regular medical check-ups.

Screening and vaccination services have been rolled out at several facilities, including Glen Vincent, Kitson Town, Sydenham, Central Village, Cumberland, and St Jago Park health centres.

SERHA is urging women to take advantage of the free screening services and encouraging parents to ensure their children receive the HPV vaccine as part of ongoing efforts to reduce cervical cancer rates nationwide.

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