KZN Health Department Launches Mass Cervical Cancer Screening Campaign

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health has launched a large-scale cancer awareness and screening campaign in response to the growing number of cervical and breast cancer cases in the province.

Over 3,000 women took part in the latest drive at the Dr Pixley ka-Isaka-Seme Memorial Hospital in KwaMashu, north of Durban. The initiative, led by Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane, aimed to screen women from Phoenix, Inanda, Ntuzuma, and KwaMashu, with a target of 2,500 screenings in a single day.

According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), cervical cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths and is the second most common cancer among South African women. Yet, a 2023 study revealed that only 19% of women undergo cervical cancer screening every three years, far below the 70% target.

Simelane emphasized the importance of early detection, noting that many lives could be saved if cancers were diagnosed sooner. “We know that if we detect cervical or breast cancer in its early stages, treatment is possible. Sadly, too many women are dying from cancers that could have been treated if found earlier,” she said.

The MEC added that similar screening drives will be extended to rural communities, where rising cancer cases have also been recorded.

Healthcare workers have identified lack of information and widespread misconceptions as major barriers to screening. Nurse Bawinile Dlamini noted that patient education has helped overcome fears and encouraged more women to participate in testing.

Women who took part in the campaign welcomed the initiative. First-time patient Nomzinyathu Khathu said she was grateful for the opportunity and described the process as simple and reassuring. Cancer survivor Phiwe Mkhize also praised the campaign, stressing that early detection saved her life.

The Health Department has pledged to continue its province-wide campaign, reinforcing the message that early detection remains the key to reducing preventable cancer deaths.