Muscat – In an effort to detect cervical cancer at an early stage and prevent its progression, the Ministry of Health is urging women aged 25-49 to visit nearest health institution and get tested.

This clarion call comes following a workshop convened on Tuesday, during which 27 women doctors from various health institutions in Oman were brought together for a critical study on cervical cancer.

As part of this national study, the workshop served as a preparatory step to measure the prevalence rate and genotypes of the human papillomavirus (HPV) among Omani women. HPV is stated to be the primary cause of cervical cancer.

The workshop, held at the National Genetic Center, was a collaborative effort among the Department of Women and Child Health, the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, the Laboratory Department at the Royal Hospital, and the United Nations Population Fund. 

Its primary focus was on the early detection of cervical cancer, as the disease has become a matter of serious concern ‘globally, regionally, and locally’. 

The workshop was held to equip obstetricians and gynecologists with the knowledge of early detection methods, diagnosis, treatment, and management of positive test results, including abnormal cells in cervical smears. 

The participants received both theoretical and practical training, including proper collection and transportation of samples from clinics to the histology laboratory at the Royal Hospital.