In a significant move to combat cervical cancer, Deputy Hu Xiaoqing has presented a proposal at this year’s National People’s Congress to expand cancer screening programs for rural women across China. The initiative aims to prevent and eliminate cervical cancer by building upon successful models like that of Jing’an County in Jiangxi Province.
Jing’an County, designated as a pilot area for cervical cancer prevention and control, has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the past few decades. In the 1970s, the mortality rate from cervical cancer in Jing’an was 3.13 times higher than the national average. However, with the introduction of annual mass screenings and treatments for pre-cancerous lesions, the local incidence and mortality rates have significantly decreased.
During a recent visit to Jing’an County ahead of the National People’s Congress, Deputy Hu learned firsthand about the county’s effective screening programs. She was inspired by stories like that of a dedicated village official in the early 2000s who, eager to encourage women to undergo screening, took over their farm work while they attended medical tests.
“The success of Jing’an County demonstrates the profound impact that regular screenings and community support can have on women’s health,” Deputy Hu remarked. “By implementing similar programs nationwide, we can make substantial progress in preventing cervical cancer among rural women.”
Deputy Hu’s proposal emphasizes the importance of government support, public awareness campaigns, and easy access to screening facilities. The initiative seeks to address disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural areas, ensuring that women across all regions receive vital preventive care.
Cervical cancer remains a pressing health issue globally, particularly in rural communities where healthcare resources may be limited. Deputy Hu’s proposal highlights the need for collaborative efforts to enhance early detection and treatment, ultimately aiming to save lives and improve the well-being of women throughout China.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
