The story of Ana, a mother of three, who managed to prevent the development of cervical cancer, thanks to going to the doctor and doing a cytology test. At the age of 36, after a routine check-up with her gynecologist, Ana found out that she has cervical lesions, described by her doctor as "precancerous cells".

“I had, like everyone else, the same shock, the same fear, I thought that's it, it's cancer... I had to accept it. To make the decision that it was not the end of my life, that I have to do some investigations. I think at that time, I had set a plan of regular check-ups every three months.”, remembers Ana Cucos, now being 44 years old.

In the Republic of Moldova, Cytologic screening for cervical cancer prevention is a priority of the health system and a growing concern for women. The cytology test is done every three years among women aged 25-61, and also, a more detailed investigation – colposcopy, if pre-cancerous lesions are found and treated, as in Anna's case.

From the 338 new cases of cervical cancer recorded in 2024, more than half were detected by cytology and colposcopy, allowing treatment to start early and saving women's lives.

"What we aim to do with the screening is to detect those initial changes that are very well detectable with the PAP test, to treat them and to prevent cancer.", confirms Uliana Tabuica, Coordinator, Colposcopy Reference Center, Mother and Child Institute.

UNFPA, in collaboration with other partners, has provided financial assistance for the procurement of advanced medical equipment, worth more than 4 million US dollars, significantly contributing to improving the quality of sexual and reproductive health services in the Republic of Moldova, including cervical cancer prevention.

As a result, women from local communities across the country, as well as refugees from Ukraine now have access to free cervical screening services through family doctors

Women aged 25-61 are encouraged to go to their family doctor for free cervical screening every three years. This test, as well as the HPV vaccine, which is available free of charge to girls and boys aged 9-14, protects against cervical cancer.

Watch the full video below, about Ana's story and the importance of going to the doctor for a routine check-up.