Ncell, Marie Stopes and the Australian Government jointly launch a nationwide awareness campaign on cervical cancer

 

Kathmandu, March 7. Ncell, Nepal’s leading mobile service provider, Marie Stopes International Nepal (MSIN) leading service provider of sexual and reproductive health service, and Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) jointly announced the launch of a groundbreaking initiative on Thursday aimed at combating cervical cancer in Nepal.

The joint initiative, the Cervical Cancer Screening and Preventive Therapy (CCSPT) awareness campaign, is poised to make a substantial impact by increasing access to vital information across the nation regarding cervical cancer prevention through screening and vaccination. Scheduled to commence in March 2024, the campaign targets women and girls aged 9 to 49 and encompasses a diverse array of activities.

Cervical cancer remains a significant threat to women’s health in Nepal, claiming the lives of too many each year. Shocking statistics from 2022 reveal that 2,169 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer, and 1,313 tragically lost their lives to this preventable disease.

 

The campaign will leverage on Ncell’s extensive network, including social media, and will also tap into MSIN’s community networks to boost its reach and impact. In addition, it will utilize various communication channels to disseminate vital information about cervical cancer prevention and treatment.

 

Key activities outlined in the campaign include tailored mass-media awareness campaigns, strategic partnerships with relevant organizations for effective information dissemination, specialized talk shows, educational video production and distribution, and a walkathon in collaboration with Ncell. Additionally, messaging through Ncell’s network will be utilised to raise awareness among the wider population.

Through these concerted efforts, the campaign aims to increase access to information on cervical cancer and the importance of screening and vaccination, empowering women to make informed choices about prevention and treatment. For further information, please contact MSIN’s toll-free helpline at 1143.