STELLENBOSCH – A renowned cancer researcher of Stellenbosch University (SU) has been named South Africa’s ambassador to the International Papillomavirus Society (IPVS).
The landmark appointment coincides with Cervical Cancer Awareness Month (September).
Dr Robyn Adams, who works in the SU Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, will join an elite group of 27 ambassadors from across the globe, representing SA for the next two years. Her term starts at the 37th annual Conference of the IPVS in Bangkok, Thailand, in October.
“Being appointed is a personal honour, but more importantly, it’s a platform to shine a spotlight on cervical cancer in SA and amplify prevention efforts,” Adams says.
“This comes at an exciting time as the Western Cape has recently transitioned from cell-based to human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA-based screening, a major step forward. However, ongoing research, advocacy, and community engagement are crucial to ensure all women can benefit from this progress.”
UNDER THE MICROSCOPE
The IPVS brings together scientists, clinicians, public health experts, and advocates to advance knowledge about HPV and related diseases. It promotes cutting-edge research, supports evidence-based prevention strategies like vaccination and screening, and leads global advocacy to eliminate HPV-related cancers.
HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection with over 200 types, some of which cause genital warts and others that can lead to cancers such as cervical, vulvar, anal, and throat cancer.
Adams believes SA must have an ambassador at the IPVS, as the country faces some of the highest rates of cervical cancer in the world, driven largely by the combined burden of HIV and HPV.
“Cervical cancer is the number-one cause of cancer deaths in women in SA, despite advances in early detection and prevention. Women living with HIV are at a greater risk of persistent high-risk HPV infections and cervical cancer because of weakened immune systems,” she points out.
GROUND-BREAKING RESEARCH
Adams plays an integral role in SU’s Gynaecological Oncology Research Group, under the leadership of Prof Hennie Botha, contributing to HPV-related research that informs cervical cancer prevention and screening. She is also developing her own research projects focused on implementation science and innovative screening strategies, including self-sampling and DNA methylation testing.
She explains that the DNA methylation marker test works by detecting specific changes in the DNA of cervical cells. These changes, known as methylation, occur when methyl groups or “tags” are added to certain parts of the DNA.
These “tags” act like switches and can affect how genes are activated to read the instructions in the DNA to make proteins that help the cells do their work.
Building on her PhD work, Adams’ efforts align closely with the IPVS mission to advance scientific knowledge, support evidence-based prevention, and increase HPV awareness in SA.
During her two-year term, she will focus on strengthening HPV education and awareness across SA, engaging with schools and communities, while fostering global collaborations to improve prevention and treatment strategies.
“This role is about building bridges – linking researchers, clinicians, and communities, and connecting South Africa’s efforts with international advocacy,” she says.
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