Medical Research Council World Health Organization Health
Systems Trust 2011-2012 Education Sector HIV and AIDS: Global
Progress Survey- Progression, Regression or Stagnation?UNAIDS
The Global Forum on MSM & HIV (MSMGF) Cervical Cancer and HIV:
The intimate connection Since 1997, over 33 000 women have died
of cervical cancer in South Africa. This translates into roughly
3 000 per year. In addition, approximately 7000 women develop
the disease every year. In 2000, a national cervical cancer
screening policy was developed and put into place. The system
uses a screening method to prevent the precancerous lesions from
developing into cervical cancer through early detection and
treatment. Screening takes place through pap smears with three
free pap smears being offered to women in the public service at
the ages of 30, 40 and 50. This policy was viewed as the most
rational approach to ensure widest coverage to all women in
South Africa. Statistics suggest since its implementation, less
than 20% of women have used