To tackle the increasing number of cervical cancers in Papua New Guinea, the Sir Brian Bell Foundation and the City Pharmacy Foundation Inc. have announced a new initiative called “Her Health Hub”, which will provide critical diagnostic services for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer for women and girls in PNG. Ultimately, this initiative will see the everyday Papua New Guinean woman have access to HPV and cervical cancer screening for only K20. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Sir Brian Bell Foundation (SBBF) Bronwyn Wright, said women and Girls will be assisted by Doctors and Nurses who have been specifically trained for this project, with test results provided on the same day as the screening. If a referral for treatment is required, it will be provided immediately, and their project partners will prioritize her care. “Cervical cancer remains a significant threat to the health and well-being of women across the country, and HPV is recognized as its primary cause.” “This project will utilise GeneXpert machines, which will be installed and maintained, along with a continuous supply of specific consumables and additional equipment,” said Wright. She said, the GeneXpert system is globally recognized for its rapid and accurate diagnostics and is endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO). All of these items, including key operational support, have been generously provided by the Sir Brian Bell Foundation and made possible by the expertise of the team at Meddent, a proud division of the Brian Bell Group and made possible by the expertise from the team at Meddent. “The Her Health Hub will be based at the Stop & Shop Badili supermarket premises and will house the first two machines, serving as the primary facility for administering the tests.” “The CPL Foundation has provided a qualified clinical team to deliver healthcare services, along with a brand-new facility and training and upskilling opportunities for the clinical team, ensuring high-quality service delivery.” “Additionally, the teams will collaborate with local stakeholders to encourage more women to seek health care.” “Together, CPL Foundation Inc. and the Sir Brian Bell Foundation are committed to: Delivering high-quality, accessible HPV testing services through trained staff at the CPL Wellness Clinics. Ensuring timely and accurate results to empower women with knowledge about their health. Raising awareness about cervical cancer prevention and the importance of early intervention.” This collaboration represents a significant step toward enhancing women’s access to essential health services, made possible by the private sector coming together and partnering with subject matter experts to positively impact the lives of women and girls, ultimately contributing to a healthier future for Papua New Guinea. Founder and Chairman of CPL Foundation, Sir Mahesh Patel said, it’s been their mission to provide this life saving treatment after they’ve seen a few of their female employee’s die at the hands of this treatable disease. “It’s always very heartbreaking. And it’s a silent killer. It claims far too many of our women and girls often without them knowing what they’re facing, and there are hundreds and hundreds of girls that die each year.” He stated that after one conversation last year, both foundations took the bold stand to come together and make a difference for women and girls with the opening of the “Her Health Hub” that will open in three weeks time. With the MoU signing, Sir Patel stated, “This is not just a document, it’s a promise that we will work together tirelessly, collaboratively with an urgency to fight cervical cancer in PNG.” “A promise that no women and no girl should have to die from a disease that is preventable.” Meanwhile, Australian Ambassador for Gender Equality Stephanie Copus Campbell said that this is a strong collaboration that aims to build a stronger community for women and girls. The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a common viral infection and if left untreated, HPV can lead to cervical cancer. Furthermore, a call of urgency from Port Moresby General Hospital Obstetrics and Gynaecology Coordinator Dr. Mary Bagita, for women and girls aged 30-59 to do routine screening. “Early screening is extremely important because cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in PNG.” She stressed that it's better to get tested than to wait until symptoms appear. She added that some common early signs of cervical cancer include bleeding after sex and foul-smelling discharge.