Although cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable through HPV vaccination and regular cervical screening, HIV positive women have a much higher chance of developing the disease. The incidence of women living with both HIV and cervical cancer is greatest in low and middle-income countries, which is why educating HIV+ women on cervical cancer prevention methods is urgent.

Before Loyce was diagnosed with cervical cancer she experienced common symptoms, including vaginal bleeding. But she wants to remind women that HPV is often asymptomatic, so regular screening is important. Loyce is also a strong advocate of HPV vaccination for adolescent girls.

Thanks to national immunisation and screening programs, cervical cancer is on the brink of elimination In some parts of the world, yet it is still the most common cancer for women in Zambia. In this powerful short film, Loyce shares a very clear message – cervical cancer prevention is better than cure. We must all urge for the upscale of HPV vaccination and cervical screenings for women in every country.