Strengthening nursing roles in early detection and prevention of cervical cancer in sub Saharan Africa

Cervical cancer is a major public health concern in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), with high incidence and mortality rates driven by persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), compounded by co-factors such as sexual behavior, high parity, smoking, immunosuppression, and limited access to screening and treatment. Nurses play a pivotal role in bridging gaps between healthcare systems and communities through education, early detection, and holistic care.

The primary objective of this review is to highlight the importance of strengthening nursing roles in early detection and prevention of cervical cancer in sub Saharan Africa.

A scoping review of literature published between 2015 and 2025 was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Keywords included “cervical cancer,” “HPV,” “nursing interventions,” “screening,” “prevention,” and “Sub-Saharan Africa.” Peer-reviewed articles, government reports, and WHO publications focusing on SSA were included. Data were extracted and analyzed thematically to identify patterns, challenges, and evidence-based strategies.

Cervical cancer in SSA is characterized by late-stage presentation, low HPV vaccination coverage, limited screening, and high mortality. Primary prevention through HPV vaccination, secondary prevention via nurse-led screening (VIA, Pap smear, HPV DNA testing), and tertiary care including treatment and palliative services are essential but underutilized. Nurses are central to health education, community engagement, early detection, and policy advocacy. Barriers include inadequate infrastructure, workforce shortages, cultural misconceptions, and financial constraints.

Cervical cancer is largely preventable, yet remains a leading cause of female mortality in SSA due to systemic, socioeconomic, and cultural barriers. Strengthening nurse-led interventions, expanding vaccination and screening programs, and implementing culturally sensitive, community-based strategies are critical to reducing incidence and improving outcomes. Nurses emerge as key agents of change in cervical cancer prevention and control.