The Women's Association "Hercegovka" from Nevesinje launched the "Responsible for Yourself" campaign within the PRAGG project, aimed at preventing cancer of the female reproductive organs and raising awareness about the importance of women's health. Their final goal is to adopt a Local Action Plan for the Prevention of These Diseases in the Municipality of Nevesinje for the period 2026–2031, to improve prevention, access to information, and preventive examinations for women and girls in the local community through coordinated action by local institutions, the health system, and the community.

Although the HPV vaccine has been in use worldwide for more than two decades, many still do not have enough information about its importance. Numerous studies confirm its safety and effectiveness, and together with regular gynecological examinations, it represents one of the most important measures for the prevention of cervical cancer. The situation is similar to breast cancer, where regular examinations, self-examinations, and timely diagnostics play a key role in early detection of the disease and successful treatment.

In the Republika Srpska, an average of 200 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, while around 50 of them lose their lives to the consequences of this disease. Statistics also show that around 600 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, while approximately 100 women die. However, experts emphasize that these diseases can be largely prevented or successfully treated if detected in time.

In addition, at the local level, data from the Municipality of Nevesinje further indicate the importance of preventive action. In the last five years, 22 cases of cervical cancer have been registered, while 15 cases of breast cancer have been recorded since 2021. At the same time, an increase in the number of HPV-positive findings has been observed, which further confirms the need for better information and preventive examinations.

The Women's Association "Hercegovka" started the campaign by organizing a round table in Nevesinje, organized on the occasion of the European Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, and was attended by representatives of health institutions, local authorities, educational institutions, civil society organizations, media, and treated patients. This meeting was an opportunity to discuss the importance of prevention, early detection of the disease, and the need to strengthen systemic support for women's health at the local level.

In the coming months, activities are planned aimed at informing citizens and strengthening cooperation between institutions and the community to create a sustainable system of support for prevention. The Association says that caring for women's health is the responsibility of the entire community, and that it is through local initiatives, joint action of institutions, experts, and citizens that solutions can be created that contribute to a healthier and stronger community in the long term.

You can follow the activities and events on the association's FB page.