In Conversation with Nurse Mbhoni Sithole

Cervical cancer remains a serious health issue in South Africa, especially among women aged 15 to 44, where it is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Often dubbed the “silent killer,” cervical cancer can develop slowly over years without obvious signs. Many of its early symptoms resemble common, less serious health issues—irregular bleeding, pelvic discomfort, or fatigue—that women often ignore or attribute to hormonal changes, stress, or infections. Because of this, diagnoses are frequently delayed until later stages, when treatment is more difficult. The disease is closely linked to persistent infection with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), which is common and usually clears on its own, but in some cases leads to precancerous changes in cervical cells. Recognising subtle or “overlooked” symptoms is essential, as early detection via screening (such as Pap smears or HPV testing) greatly improves outcomes.