Abstract:
The World Health Organisation’s 90–70–90 cancer strategy is premised upon the implementation
of human papillomavirus deoxyribonucleic acid (HPV-DNA) testing as the primary cervical cancer
screening modality. The ultimate aim is to reduce the age-standardized incidence of cervical
cancer to less than 4 per 100 000 by the end of the 21st century and eliminate the disease as a
significant global health concern. Zimbabwe, like other countries in sub-Saharan Africa, has a
high burden of cervical cancer, with data from the Zimbabwe National Cancer Registry showing
that cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among women. This is despite visual
inspection of the cervix with acetic acid (VIA) and cytology being available as screening modalities.
These programs have suffered several implementation challenges, and the success of
implementing HPV-DNA screening programs will depend partly on addressing the challenges that
have been faced by these pre-existing programs. Additionally, other challenges unique to HPVDNA
testing must be anticipated with adequate measures put in place to avert these potential
challenges. This calls for a close collaboration between academia, clinicians, public health
stakeholders, policymakers, and implementing partners to ensure the success of the program and
avert cervical cancer deaths.
