MFP’s Cervical Cancer Detection Program Screens More than 1,500 Women

Cervical cancer rates in Haiti are among the highest in the world. Since the MFP women’s health initiative began in May 2010, the clinic at the Alma Mater Hospital in Gros Morne has screened more than 1,500 women for cervical cancer. While the cornerstone of the program is cervical cancer screening and prevention, the program provides a general gynecological examination, testing for sexually transmitted infections (including HIV screening), breast examinations, and counseling services in health-promoting behavior. The MFP program is a collaboration between Haitian and U.S. health professionals, and is one of the few high-volume cancer screening programs in Haiti.

We found that five percent of patients have precancerous lesions of the cervix, and were treated with cryosurgery. A number of patients with invasive cervical cancer underwent curative surgery. More than 500 women were treated for sexually-transmitted diseases, and approximately 100 women are now being treated for elevated blood pressure. A number of patients were detected with breast masses that were subsequently removed.

In 2011, MFP Medicine For Peace (MFP) has opened a second screening clinic for detection and treatment cervical cancer and other gynecological diseases in Pendu, one hour north of Gros Morne. A third clinic will be opened after the first of the year in Dekostyer. "Cervical cancer incidence rates are extremely high in Haiti," said Dr. Michael Viola, Director of MFP. "The success of the early detection program has been due, in large part, to our education efforts, and the promotion of mass screening by women's organizations in the community." MFP nurses spend a considerable amount of time in outreach, talking frequently to school and community organizations, and are frequently featured on local radio stations. The response of women in the community to our nurses’ efforts has taught us that Haitian women are deeply aware of the importance of their well-being, and will enthusiastically participate in programs that will improve their health when those resources are made available to them.

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Photo: Orna Dieuaume, RN, Cecily Seide, RN, and Sr. Clarice Carroll, RN,NP prepare for women’s health clinic.