Number of women screened for cervical cancer using the VIA method within given timeframe; number of positive VIA results

Data Source(s):

Health facility records

Purpose:

Due to non-existent or poorly executed cervical cancer prevention programs, approximately 80% of all cases of cervical cancer globally occur in less-developed countries (ACCP, 2004). To address this problem, VIA, an inexpensive yet effective screening procedure which has been endorsed by the WHO, has been developed for a wide range of settings.  VIA entails brushing acetic acid (vinegar) on a woman’s cervix which makes precancerous spots turn white.  They can immediately be frozen off using the cryotherapy method.  No laboratory processing is required, only simple equipment and supplies are needed, the results are immediate, the client can be treated in the same visit, and all care can be provided by a trained nurse (Dherbeys, 2011).    

Issue(s):

Although VIA reveals pre-tumors with more accuracy than a typical Pap smear, it also has more false positives.  Because VIA-positive lesions are not unique to precancer, a considerable proportion of women will be unnecessarily treated for precancer or referred for further management, which can overload the service site where treatment is being offered (AACP, 2004).  However, when screening tests with the inherent potential for overtreatment, such as visual methods, are combined with an outpatient treatment method that is safe, relatively inexpensive, and acceptable, the overall benefit can outweigh the limitations.

Alliance for Cervical Cancer Prevention (ACCP). Planning and Implementing Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control Programs: A Manual for Managers. Seattle: ACCP; 2004.  http://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/publications/cancers/a92126/en/