Epidemics of HIV and HPV are inherently interconnected, and when they meet in the context of weak health systems, their effects serve to amplify each other. Both HIV and cervical cancer present significant public health threats to women in sub-Saharan Africa. But while the threat of HIV is well documented, and the mass mobilisation of resources to treat HIV, unprecedented, cervical cancer is a relatively new and developing challenge for the region.

Cervical cancer is preventable, but it remains the second most common cause of cancer among women and the leading cause of female cancer deaths in sub-Saharan Africa. It is also one of the most common cancers in women living with HIV. Patterns of cervical cancer and HIV typify the experience of young women in Africa – who face multiple barriers to good health. 

Gender inequality, intimate partner violence, inequitable laws and harmful traditional practices reinforce power dynamics between men and women. These dynamics limit women’s choices, opportunities, and access to information, health and social services, education and employment. This sets up a challenging environment for preventing infections and morbidities.