Suriname’s Lobi Health Center Expands HIV Prevention and Cancer Screening Services

Paramaribo, Suriname – March 3, 2026 – The Lobi Health Center (formerly the Lobi Foundation), a leading provider of sexual and reproductive health (SRHR) services in Suriname, is celebrating 58 years of operation with an expansion of its preventative care offerings. This includes the introduction of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention and novel HPV self-sampling tests for improved cervical cancer screening access.

A History of Accessible SRHR Services

Founded on February 29, 1968, as a family planning initiative, Lobi Health Center has evolved into a multidisciplinary public health center serving tens of thousands of clients annually. The organization has pioneered accessible SRHR services, encompassing contraception, HIV testing, and cervical cancer screening, alongside education and empowerment programs for young people, women, and vulnerable populations. Lobi also actively contributes to the development of national SRHR policies [Lobi Suriname].

Expanding Preventative Care: PrEP and HPV Self-Testing

In alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and national health priorities, Lobi Health Center is committed to expanding care throughout Suriname’s districts, currently reaching nine out of ten. A key component of this expansion is the introduction of PrEP, a highly effective medication for preventing HIV infection [IPPF Americas & the Caribbean].

To increase participation in cervical cancer screening and reduce barriers to access, Lobi Health Center is also implementing qualitative HPV self-sampling tests. Cervical cancer is most common in women between 30 and 49 years of age and is often caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) [Lobi Suriname].

Commitment to Quality and Confidentiality

Nensy Bandhoe, General Manager of Lobi Health Center, emphasized the organization’s dedication to providing respectful and quality sexual and reproductive care, prioritizing privacy and confidentiality. “We continue to build a Suriname in which everyone has access to respectful and quality sexual and reproductive care, with attention to privacy and confidentiality,” she stated.

Collaboration and Impact

Lobi Health Center acknowledges the crucial support of its partners, including the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labour, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and other cooperating organizations. Recent initiatives, such as screening nearly 700 women for high-risk HPV types in just three days, demonstrate the organization’s commitment to preventative care [srnieuws.com].

Looking Ahead

Lobi Health Center remains a vital player in Suriname’s healthcare landscape, dedicated to improving the sexual and reproductive health of its citizens through expanded services, innovative approaches, and strong partnerships. The introduction of PrEP and HPV self-testing marks a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to prevent HIV and cervical cancer [gfcnieuws.com].