Minister Joseph Champions Cervical Cancer Awareness at Villa SDA Church Ceremony

The Honorable Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister of Health, led the Cervical Cancer Taskforce ceremony at Villa Seventh Day Adventist Church. With a strong presence of healthcare professionals, survivors, and the wider community, the event underscored the importance of prevention, early detection, and vaccination in the fight against cervical cancer.

Chief Medical Officer (Ag) Dr. Kamaria DeCastro, Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Teri-Ann Joseph and Head of the Cervical Cancer Task Force, Dr. Cherie Tulloch were among those in attendance.

In his address, Minister Joseph highlighted that “Though cervical cancer affects countless women, it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Through awareness, screening, and vaccination, we have the power to save lives.” He also used the opportunity to speak about the expansion of HPV testing in 2024, with over 2,100 women receiving their first tests to detect early cervical changes and prevent cancer before it develops.

The Minister also reflected on the nation’s milestone in 2018 when Antigua and Barbuda became the first Caribbean nation to access the HPV vaccine through the PAHO Revolving Fund, significantly reducing future cancer burdens. The government’s efforts align with the World Health Organization’s global strategy to reduce cervical cancer cases to fewer than four per 100,000 women, with further steps to expand HPV testing, enhance vaccination, and improve treatment access.

His presentation also focused on the fact that the Government of Antigua and Barbuda waived the fees associated with having persons tested for HPV.

Minister Joseph’s speech also emphasized the shared responsibility of men, urging them to support women in their lives by encouraging screening and raising awareness within their families and communities.

The event, which included powerful moments of solidarity among cervical cancer survivors, was a reminder of the importance of community support in fighting cancer. It also marked another step in Antigua and Barbuda’s ongoing commitment to the elimination of cervical cancer through faith, action, and continued investment in public health.