Preventing Cervical Cancer: The Power of Awareness and Action

Insights from Professor Abubakar Bello

Abubakar Bello, MD, FMCR, FICS, is a trailblazer in the field of oncology, with over 15 years of experience as a Clinical and Radiation Oncologist at the National Hospital Abuja in Nigeria, where he has led the Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology. A former President of the African Organization for Training and Research in Cancer (AORTIC), Professor Bello is internationally recognized for his contributions to cancer care and research, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Professor Bello’s career is marked by exceptional achievements, including establishing Nigeria’s only HIV Genotyping PCR lab and leading pivotal studies on immunotherapies and genetic mutations. A fellow of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and an Oxford University alumnus, he has been instrumental in developing the NCCN Harmonized Guidelines for Sub-Saharan Africa, significantly improving cancer care protocols in the region.

In this interview, Professor Bello shares his insights on cervical cancer prevention, the critical gaps in care, and the role organizations like the Society for Translational Oncology (STO) can play in advancing education and treatment access in underserved communities. He also highlights the potential of emerging technologies, like liquid biopsy, to transform cervical cancer screening and reduce global disparities.

What is one lesser-known fact about cervical cancer that you wish everyone understood?

That cervical cancer is preventable, that is a sexually transmitted disease and it is highly curable even in late stages. Awareness is the most important step in achieving a world free of cervical cancer.

What do you believe is the most significant gap in cervical cancer care today, and how can it best be addressed?

Awareness and education of the populace and healthcare providers is the most significant gap. Primary healthcare practitioners will play a key role in education and awareness, as well as reaching out to young people within the community and schools even in rural areas.

How can organizations like STO best support the ongoing education of healthcare professionals in the field of cervical cancer screening, prevention, and treatment?

Engaging experts in local communities to develop educational materials in local languages and jingles in local radios. Developing and supporting protocols for screening as well as leveraging on their contacts to provide more vaccines to low and middle-income countries through GAVI. To achieve the WHO’s 90- 70- 90 by 2030, in most African countries without the help of organizations such as STO will simply be a mirage.

What recent advancements in cervical cancer research are you most excited about, and why?

The liquid biopsy that could easily replace the PAP smear in the not-so-distant future is a game changer. It is cheap and easy to conduct even in places where cultural issues are preventing the uptake of PAP smears. It will also help mass screening within a short time.