NHIA Marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month with Health Talk in Accra

January 19, 2026

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has held a Cervical Cancer Awareness Health Talk and Panel Discussion in Accra as part of activities marking Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. The event, organised by the Marketing Team of the Corporate Affairs Directorate, took place on 16 January 2026 at the Ministry of Health Conference Room and focused on prevention, screening, early detection, and treatment of cervical cancer.

At the programme, the NHIA highlighted the role of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in supporting access to cervical cancer care, including approved screening methods, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. It was revealed that between 2023 and 2025, the Authority processed claims amounting to GH₵5,743,354.68 for the treatment of 5,649 NHIS members diagnosed with cervical cancer.

Participants were educated on available screening options such as Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA), Pap Smear, and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing, with health experts stressing that early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

The discussion also addressed common misconceptions surrounding cervical cancer and its modes of transmission. Experts explained that cervical cancer is primarily caused by persistent infection with high risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV). While men do not have a cervix, they can carry HPV and potentially transmit the virus. Men can therefore be tested using non cervical samples.

Health professionals also cautioned participants against the use of unapproved herbal medications, stressing that reliance on unverified treatments can delay proper diagnosis and reduce survival chances.

The panel discussion was moderated by Ms. Shaniece Palm of the Corporate Affairs Department. Panelists included Dr. Abena Ekufua Esia Donkoh, Deputy Director at CPC Cape Coast, and Ms. Doris Adjei, Deputy Director of the Nursing Service, who shared expert insights on prevention strategies, vaccination, screening schedules, and treatment options.

In separate remarks, the Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Oswald Essuah Mensah, encouraged women to take personal responsibility for their health by prioritising regular cervical cancer screening.

Similarly, the Head of Communication, Ms. Faustina Dery, reiterated the importance of early detection and urged the public to seek professional medical care when symptoms arise. She reaffirmed the NHIA’s commitment to sustained public education, disease prevention, and equitable access to quality healthcare services for all Ghanaians.

The event formed part of NHIA’s broader public health advocacy efforts aimed at reducing cervical cancer related deaths through awareness creation, early screening, and improved access to treatment under the National Health Insurance Scheme.

Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among women in Ghana, despite being largely preventable through vaccination and early screening. Health authorities continue to encourage women between the ages of 21 and 65 to undergo routine screening, even in the absence of symptoms.

NHIA officials noted that increasing public awareness and removing financial barriers through NHIS support are critical steps toward achieving national and global targets for cervical cancer elimination.

The Authority pledged to continue collaborating with the Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service, and other stakeholders to strengthen prevention programmes and expand access to lifesaving services nationwide.