Since the most common form of cervical cancer starts with precancerous changes, there are two ways to stop this disease from developing. The first way is to prevent cervical cancer through primary prevention – healthy lifestyle and vaccination. The second way is through screening with emphasis on Single Visit Approach (SVA).

What is the Single Visit Approach (SVA)?

According to the Alliance for Cervical Cancer Prevention (ACCP) fact sheet (April 2007), “studies have shown that the most efficient and effective strategy for secondary prevention of cervical cancer in low resource settings is to screen using HPV testing or VIA (Visual Inspection) using acetic acid, then treat pre-cancerous lesions using cryotherapy (freezing of the cervix using compressed carbon dioxide as coolant in order to destroy precancer lesions discovered during VIA).”

SVA is the best approach that can benefit Filipino women because it immediately provides results through screening using Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) linked to treatment using cryotherapy.  VIA is a practical alternative for healthcare professionals in developing countries because it is safe, easy to perform, and inexpensive. 

What is the Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA)

VIA is looking at the cervix to detect abnormalities after applying a dilute solution of acetic acid, which is the most common ingredient in household vinegar.

What is Cryotherapy?  
               
Cryotherapy involves freezing the cervix, using either compressed carbon dioxide or nitrous oxide gas as the coolant.  The aim is to destroy precancer lesions discovered during VIA.