Our next trip to Guatemala:
Preventing Cervical Cancer
March 9-15, 2025
In Guatemala, cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women of reproductive age, with 3.77 million Guatemalan women currently at risk for this potentially fatal cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) DNA-based test as the preferred method, rather than visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) or cytology (commonly known as a ‘Pap smear’), currently the most commonly used methods globally to detect pre-cancer lesions.
HPV-DNA testing detects high-risk strains of HPV which cause almost all cervical cancers. Unlike tests that rely on visual inspection, HPV-DNA testing is an objective diagnostic, leaving no space for interpretation of results. This method is simpler, prevents more pre-cancers and cancer, and saves more lives than VIA or cytology.
WHO suggests that self-collected samples can be used when providing HPV DNA testing. Studies show that women often feel more comfortable taking their own samples, for instance in the comfort of their own home, rather than going to see a provider for screening. However, women need to receive appropriate support to feel confident in managing the process. Follow-up for abnormal testing by health care professionals is also critical.
Madre y Niño is excited to partner with the Guatemalan Ministry of Health and Dr. Carlos Fabrizio Palma to reach 400 women in one of the most remote regions of Guatemala, implementing testing for high-risk HPV and treatment for women identified at risk for cervical cancer.
Join us on for the journey March 9-15, 2025.
The cost will be $800 per volunteer, plus airfare.
We are seeking a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 10 volunteers for this trip. If they wish, volunteers will have an opportunity to visit the ruins at Tikal.
Please register prior to February 9, 2025.
After you have registered, the team leader will send you full details about airfare and travel information.