A rights-based approach to eliminating cervical cancer in Africa

Abstract

This article assesses Africa’s path to eliminating cervical cancer as a human rights imperative. It discusses states’ obligations in relation to the rights to health, life and non-discrimination in relation to gender and priority setting for cervical cancer prevention and control, as well as the need to address disparities in access to care. The needs of vulnerable and marginalized women are explored through the lens of women living with HIV (WLHIV). It argues that the cervical cancer burden in Africa is highest in countries which correlate with high HIV prevalence, and so the elimination of the disease in this group requires specific strategies tailored to their context. It notes further that cervical cancer cannot be eliminated in Africa without specific attention given to the multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination women face, and how this impacts their access to health care. It concludes by providing some concrete suggestions to African governments to address cervical cancer as a human rights imperative.