Hospital opens women’s clinic

By ELIAS NANAU
WOMEN in West Sepik can now undergo screening at the Vanimo General Hospital for the early detection of the human papilloma virus (HPV) that causes cervical cancer and other genital diseases.
The Vanimo General Hospital last week opened a clinic under its obstetrics and gynaecology section managed by a specialist, Dr Angela Senginawi.
Hospital chief executive officer Elias Kapavore said Dr Senginawi transferred from Alotau to the Vanimo General Hospital in April and she was concerned about the lack of access to proper antenatal care in Vanimo.
Kapavore said Senginawi then recommended to the hospital management to introduce the service to detect the cervical cancer virus in women from Vanimo town, surrounding settlements and villages.
“Lack of such facilities has contributed to increased maternal mortality in the province,” Senginawi said.
“It has taken a while in coming but it is now a great relief for women in West Sepik to access this service locally at Vanimo General Hospital,” Kapavore said.
He said the hospital’s strategic location along the border with Indonesia allows for frequent movement of people between the two countries and increased social risks.
“Cervical cancer is the leading common cancer among women in PNG, claiming 3,500 lives every year,” Kapavore said.
“The hospital is accountable for the health demand for Sandaun people and will ensure essential services are accessible.
“The hospital will emphasise on education and awareness on screening programmes.
“By doing this, we will reduce the high mortality caused by cervical cancer in our country,” Kapavore said.
He urged all young females and women in West Sepik to use the service.
Kapavore said other maternal and child health services available at the hospital included antenatal care, family planning, well-baby clinics and the gynaecology clinic.