What We Do

Women’s Cancer Prevention PNG works to reduce the impact of breast and cervical cancer in Papua New Guinea through community education, prevention, early detection, and strengthening local capacity.

Our work begins with awareness and education. Many women and communities in Papua New Guinea have limited access to information about cancer symptoms, prevention, and the importance of seeking medical care early. Our nurses and trained WCP Champions work within communities across Morobe Province to provide education about breast and cervical cancer, including signs and symptoms, when to seek medical attention, and the importance of prevention and early diagnosis.

Through building awareness and trust within communities, we aim to create a strong foundation for the next stages of our programme, including expanding access to cervical cancer screening and treatment, breast cancer screening, and HPV vaccination. These interventions have the potential to prevent cancer, identify disease earlier, and save lives.

Our approach is centred on community participation and empowerment. We believe communities already have valuable knowledge, strengths, and resources that can contribute to improving health outcomes. Through the SALT approach (Stimulate, Appreciate, Learn and Transfer), we work alongside communities to listen, learn, recognise existing strengths, and support locally led solutions.

We also work to strengthen local capacity by supporting community members to become health advocates within their own villages. Our WCP Champions play an important role in sharing knowledge, encouraging health-seeking behaviours, and helping connect communities with available health services.

WCP PNG is working in partnership with the Morobe Provincial Health Authority to support the integration and future development of women’s cancer prevention activities within existing health programmes. By combining community engagement, local leadership, and health system collaboration, we aim to create sustainable improvements in health that will benefit women, families, and communities across Papua New Guinea.