Khaberni - Specialized doctors have warned of the increasing risk of cervical cancer in Jordan in the future years due to changing social behaviors in the community and a lack of awareness about prevention and early detection, emphasizing that the continuation of these factors could lead to a gradual increase in infection rates.
These warnings came during a scientific workshop organized by the Middle Eastern Network for Community Health (EMPHNET) and MSD Company in cooperation with the Ministry of Health, which aimed to highlight the importance of early detection and vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV), and to enhance the partnership between the public and private sectors to confront the disease before it becomes an increasing health burden, according to the opinion.
Dr. Abdullah Maatouk, Head of the Cancer Control Department at the Ministry of Health, confirmed that the number of cervical cancer cases in Jordan ranges between 50 and 60 cases annually, with a slight rise in the year 2022 to 75 cases.
He pointed out that although the figures are still low, they could rise in the future due to changes in societal behaviors observed in the Arab world and eastern societies, as observed by gynecologists in clinics and hospitals.
He noted that the main cause of infection is the human papillomavirus (HPV), a widely spread virus transmitted through sexual contact, that includes more than 200 types, 14 of which are high-risk types that could lead to cancer. He explained that the body automatically disposes of 90% of infections, but chronic or recurrent infections could become cancer cells over time.
Maatouk added that the Ministry of Health is currently conducting a field study in the Mafraq governorate to assess the prevalence of the human papillomavirus among women, as a precursor to expanding it to other provinces in order to build precise health decisions and policies.
He clarified that the national cancer registry, which operates under the non-communicable diseases umbrella in the ministry, is the primary reference in tracking cancer types and their distribution, according to international classifications.
He considered that cooperation between the public and private sectors reflects the importance of multi-party partnerships in integrated health work, noting that cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer among women globally, with 660,000 new cases recorded, and 350,000 deaths in 2022.
Maatouk emphasized that the media is a crucial partner in transferring medical knowledge to the community, as through the media we can simplify information and enable citizens to understand the risks and methods of prevention, noting that eliminating cervical cancer is not a distant dream but an achievable goal through cooperation, awareness, and will.
On his part, oncology specialist Dr. Salah Abbas warned that Jordanian society might witness a concerning rise in cervical cancer cases in the coming years, noting that the disease is not discussed sufficiently due to the social stigma associated with it.
He mentioned, "Ten years ago, we did not see notable cases, but today I see 3 to 4 cases monthly, some in advanced stages, and others in pre-cancer stages."
He added that the human papillomavirus is one of the most common viruses, as 80% of men and women are exposed to it during their lives, and the body usually disposes of it automatically if the immune system is strong.
Abbas pointed out that there are high-risk types of the virus that can cause tumors and cellular changes that later turn into cancer, while some types are limited in impact.
He also noted that women infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are six times more likely to develop cervical cancer compared to others, affirming that vaccination against the human papillomavirus and early screening are the best means of prevention, and that recovery is possible if diagnosed and treated in the early stages.
Abbas stressed that cervical cancer remains a preventable and controllable disease, but we need to confront silence and stigma with awareness, early screening, and vaccination.
During the workshop, Dr. Zina Abdel Majid from EMPHNET presented a policy brief on accelerating the elimination of cervical cancer in Jordan, confirming that achieving this goal requires a comprehensive national approach that combines prevention, early detection, and treatment, in line with the World Health Organization's goals named "90-70-90".
She reviewed the current situation in Jordan and the challenges facing national efforts, such as delayed diagnosis and treatment, lack of awareness, and accurate data, emphasizing the importance of integrating the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine within the national immunization program as a pivotal step in disease prevention.
She also highlighted the role played by EMPHNET in supporting the Jordanian Ministry of Health through awareness campaigns, media activities, and meetings with stakeholders, affirming that cooperation between national and international entities is the real key to achieving the goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a public health issue.
She concluded with a call to enhance community awareness and empower women to access healthcare services without stigma or discrimination, asserting that taking action now is an urgent necessity to preserve a healthier and safer future for women in Jordan.
EMPHNET plays an important role in supporting national and regional efforts to prevent cervical cancer through promoting community awareness, effective communication, and health media.
It also works on building the capacities of healthcare professionals and media personnel in areas of health education, and conveying accurate messages about the importance of early detection and regular follow-ups for women's health.
It also supports initiatives that encourage dialogue between health, media, and civil society entities to promote a broader understanding of cervical cancer and prevention methods.
Through its advocacy and awareness efforts, EMPHNET seeks to enable communities to make informed decisions that contribute to reducing infection rates and enhancing women's health in the region.
