Achievement 3: health technologies for women
In the last century, new technologies such as microbicides, mammograms, PAP tests and visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and bone densitometry have contributed to the prevention of osteoporosis, HIV, and breast and cervical cancer.
For example, breast and cervical cancer are among the top 10 leading causes of death for women aged 20-59 years, representing 223 000 deaths in 2004. The introduction of screening programmes contributes to early identification, access to treatment, and leads to longer, healthier lives for many women and girls.