The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for the global elimination of cervical cancer. Innovations in health technologies, such as the smart colposcope from MobileODT, are helping reach this goal.

The Global Context of Cervical Cancer

In 2020, it is estimated that there were 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths from cervical cancer globally. Of those, 90% were thought to have been from low-and-middle-income countries. The highest mortality rates are seen in African countries, where rates can be as much as 10 times higher than those of higher-income countries.

Those in low-and-middle-income countries often face limited access to cervical cancer preventative measures, such as vaccinations and early detection screening programs. They also face a reduced availability of treatment options.

To achieve reduced cervical cancer instances, the WHO wants to screen 70% of women by age 35 and again by age 45. The organization aims to have 90% of girls vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by 15 years of age. To complete this by 2023, screening services in low-resource settings need to be addressed.

Cervical Cancer: Early Detection

A colposcopy is a procedure utilized by gynecologists to visualize the cervix. The colposcope acts as a microscope and, by using various stains, the gynecologist will assess the extent of any abnormality. This aids with diagnosis and treatment.

Colposcopy services are scarce in low-and-middle-income countries. One reason for this is the cost of the equipment. Traditional colposcopes can cost up to $15,000, making availability limited for the equipment required for screening.

MobileODT Innovations

MobileODT is a FemTech company revolutionizing the approach to cervical cancer screening by delivering affordable and practical health care innovations. The company has implemented its technology in over 50 countries to successfully screen more than 400,000 women.

The company has developed a smart colposcope – the EVAPro – which acts as a medical-grade case that can affix to a mobile phone. The case comes equipped with a light source and magnifying lens that enhances the ability of the phone camera, enabling it to act as a colposcope. This allows it to capture detailed images of cervical tissues.

The device is considerably cheaper than a traditional colposcope. At around $1,800, its use is widely accessible, particularly in low-resource settings. Furthermore, in countries with a shortage of trained gynecologists, nurses and midwives can easily use the device.

Innovations in women’s health technologies are vital to meet the World Health Organization’s targets. With devices like the EVAPro from MobileODT, women in low-resource settings are receiving essential screening.

– Jess Steward
Photo: Flickr