Women’s Coalition Against Cancer (WOCACA) has appealed to health institutions in Malawi to prioritize the link between gender-based violence (GBV) and women’s health as the global community commemorates this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against GBV.
WOCACA Executive Director, Maud Mwakasungula, said time had come for the health systems to integrate GBV screening into cancer care programs, ensuring that survivors of abuse receive the psychosocial and legal support they need.
Mwakasungula made the sentiments in a statement the organization released to join hands with organizations, advocates, and communities in Malawi and across the globe in commemorating the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV.
This year’s theme calls for renewed efforts to challenge and end all forms of violence against women and girls.
Mwakasungula said health institutions in Malawi need to expand access to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and counselling services to reduce the risks of stigma and violence.
“At WOCACA, we acknowledge the critical intersection between cancer and GBV – a reality many women silently endure. A diagnosis of cervical, breast or any other form of cancer should inspire compassion and support. Instead, many women face rejection, neglect, and abuse from those closest to them, including their spouses and family members. This reality compounds the emotional and physical burden of cancer, leaving survivors to struggle in silence,” she said.
According to Mwakasungula, stigma has played a big role in this cycle of abuse. Women who survive cancer are often seen as “less than” by their families or communities, leading to discrimination, isolation, or even abandonment by their partners.
She disclosed that cancer survivors frequently report being blamed for their condition, unfairly labelled as a burden, or excluded from decision-making in their households.
She therefore said as the global community commemorates the 16 Days of Activism, families and communities need to reject stigma and embrace understanding.
“Cancer is a health condition, not a source of shame or dishonour. Every woman battling or surviving cancer deserves dignity, love, and care – not violence or neglect. We call for increased awareness within families on how to support women diagnosed with cancer. Families must understand that their role is critical in providing encouragement and a sense of belonging during treatment and recovery. Greater community awareness is also key in dismantling harmful myths and ensuring survivors reintegrate into society with respect and acceptance,” she said.
Mwakasungula further emphasized the need for collective responsibility in addressing this issue, noting that ending GBV against women with cancer requires collaboration and promote a culture of compassion and ensure that no woman faces cancer or violence alone.
“Let us use these 16 Days of Activism to amplify the voices of women impacted by both cancer and GBV. It is time to turn awareness into action, challenge harmful norms, and build a world where every woman can live free of violence, stigma, and fear,” concluded the statement.