The Go Further Program: Saving women's lives from cervical cancer in sub-Saharan Africa

The George W. Bush Presidential Center launched the "Go Further" initiative, a program dedicated to combating cervical cancer in Africa, a highly preventable disease that remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women on the continent. Launched in 2018, this effort aims to address disparities in healthcare access by focusing on effective, life-saving strategies.

'Go Further' focuses on early detection and treatment of precancerous lesions, as well as vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of this disease. The initiative aims to dramatically reduce the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer, improving the quality of life for millions of women in Africa.

This collaboration brings together the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the pharmaceutical company Merck, achieving significant progress since its inception. To date, "Go Further" has
provided essential health services, such as screening and preventive treatments, to millions of women in resource-limited areas.

In January 2024, Hannah Johnson, a representative of the George W. Bush Institute, participated in the White House Cervical Cancer Forum, an event that brought together leaders, health experts, advocates, and policymakers. During the forum, several key points were highlighted:

The importance of HPV vaccination: Increasing vaccination rates to prevent infections associated with cervical cancer.
Early detection programs: Implementing more accessible and effective strategies to identify precancerous lesions at early stages.
Equitable access to treatment: Ensuring that all women, especially those in underserved communities, have access to quality care.
Public education and awareness: Raising awareness about cervical cancer and preventive measures through informational campaigns.

During her speech, Johnson emphasized the importance of international collaboration, the use of innovative technologies, and the strengthening of healthcare systems as key pillars in effectively combating this disease.

The "Go Further" initiative not only focuses on immediate impact but also on building sustainable infrastructure to ensure that future generations have access to the necessary resources to prevent and treat cervical cancer.