The Katsina State government has launched a one-stop cervical cancer screening initiative targeting 500 women across the state.

The programme aims to improve early detection, treatment and research into cervical cancer through advanced medical interventions.

The governor’s wife, Zulaihat Radda, inaugurated the initiative on Tuesday in Katsina.

She described the project as a major step toward protecting women from one of the most preventable cancers.

She said the programme marked a new chapter in efforts to safeguard mothers, wives, sisters and daughters.

“Early detection and timely treatment remain critical in protecting women’s health,” she said.

The governor’s wife commended the state government for supporting healthcare reforms and encouraging partnerships.

She said such collaborations would improve access to quality healthcare services for women.

Ms Radda welcomed gynaecological oncologist Sophia George and her team for their support of the initiative.

She described their involvement as a demonstration of commitment to advancing women’s healthcare across Africa.

The project was funded through an international research grant awarded to Fatima Rasheed.

Ms Rasheed, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, collaborated with researchers at the University of Miami.

The initiative will provide cervical cancer screening for 500 eligible women and support advanced research.

The research will include HPV DNA testing, liquid-based cytology, vaginal microbiome analysis and genetic studies.

Ms Radda said women diagnosed with precancerous cervical lesions would receive free treatment during the exercise.

She added that she would sponsor the treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina.

Earlier, Ms Rasheed described the initiative as a professional mission and personal commitment. She said her motivation was driven by the loss of women to preventable cervical cancer.

According to her, the one-stop model would provide screening, diagnosis, and treatment in a single hospital visit.

She said the approach would reduce delays that often discourage patients from returning for care.

Ms Rasheed explained that the project would generate local evidence on Human Papillomavirus strains. She said the findings would help guide vaccination and treatment strategies in Nigeria.

The consultant added that plans were underway to introduce digital microscopy technology for faster results.

She said the innovation would significantly reduce waiting periods for Pap smear results.

Ms George described the initiative as a historic milestone in the fight against cervical cancer.

She said the programme combined screening, diagnosis, and treatment through a single coordinated healthcare platform.

Ms George noted that the project was built on years of research and international collaboration.

She said it would strengthen healthcare capacity, train professionals and advance cancer research.

Ms George called for continued cooperation among governments, healthcare workers and communities.

“No woman should die from preventable cervical cancer,” she said. 

(NAN)