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Welcome to PinkRibbon Ethiopia

You’re not alone. This page shares key facts about common female cancers in Ethiopia, survival stats, health initiatives, and trusted support organisations. Our mission is to ensure every woman has access to awareness, early detection, and compassionate care.

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Cancer statistics
& survival rates

Breast Cancer
Accounts for ~29.3% of all female cancer cases.
Cervical Cancer
Represents ~46.7% of female cancers.
Ovarian Cancer
Makes up ~13% of female cancer cases.
Endometrial (Corpus Uteri) Cancer
Limited data available.
Vaginal and Vulvar Cancers
Data limited; recognized as rare but significant when present.

### Systemic Challenges

Low public awareness and participation in screening programs.
Limited diagnostic and treatment infrastructure, especially outside major cities.
Shortage of trained oncology professionals.
Inefficient referral systems, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
High out-of-pocket costs for most treatment services.

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Learn more

Recent research
& Initiatives

  • Recent Research

    National Cancer Control Plan 2025–2029: Current strategic plan to reduce cancer burden through improved prevention, screening, treatment, and palliative care integration.
    Cervical Screening System Study (Addis Ababa): Examines strategies to improve cervical cancer screening participation and early detection.
    Breast Cancer Treatment Expansion: National initiative increasing the number of hospitals offering breast cancer treatment from 2 to 24 facilities.

    Learn more

Support organizations

  • Support Organisations

    Mathiwos Wondu – YeEthiopia Cancer Society (MWECS): Provides patient support, advocacy, and cancer awareness campaigns. mwecs.org
    Ye Ethiopia Cancer Association (YECA): Focuses on cancer education, patient aid, and public awareness.
    Hospice Ethiopia: Delivers community-based cancer care and palliative services, especially for low-resource settings. hospiceethiopia.org

Accessing cancer screening and treatment

Where to get screened

These services are part of the national screening program “Prolamvano” (meaning “I Prevent”)

Learn more

  • **Where to Get Screened**

    Facilities: Screenings offered primarily at public hospitals and clinics in urban areas.
    Cancer Types Targeted:
    Breast Cancer
    Cervical Cancer

    **Appointment Needed?
    Yes, appointments are usually required.**

    **What to Bring:**

    National ID card
    Previous medical records

    Learn more
Support is nearby

Hotline numbers

Typically open Monday–Friday, standard business hours (confirm locally).

Where to get treatment

  • Where to Go

    Major Centres:
    Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (Addis Ababa) – main national cancer treatment center
    New oncology centers at Haramaya University and regional hospitals
    New cancer treatment center in Harar City

    **Government Coverage:
    Progress is underway toward broader national health insurance. However, gaps in coverage remain, with many services paid out-of-pocket. Cancer care is increasingly integrated into public health planning.**


    **Note:
    Infrastructure and staff shortages mean that waiting times and travel distances can be significant, especially for rural patients.**

Financial support

  •

    NGO Assistance:
    MWECS and YECA provide financial aid, patient support services, and advocacy for better access to care.
    Government Plans:
    Aiming to expand health financing and reduce out-of-pocket costs for cancer care through integration into public insurance schemes.
    Patients are advised to discuss financial assistance options with hospital social workers or directly with these organizations.

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