Understanding HPV and Its Link to Cervical Cancer in Nigeria:
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a common virus that can affect anyone. In Nigeria, it’s a pressing issue due to its link with cervical cancer, which is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women. HPV is often transmitted through sexual contact, and when left unchecked, it can lead to cervical cancer. Our girls are vulnerable, and we must act now to protect them.
Cervical cancer is a silent threat, often detected at advanced stages. Let’s break it down:
 The HPV-Cervical Cancer Connection:
HPV is primarily spread through sexual contact. When it lingers in the body, it can lead to cervical cancer. Here’s the hard truth: cervical cancer claims too many lives in Nigeria. A recent study from the ICO/IARC information center on HPV and cancer indicates that every year 12075 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 7968 die from the disease. Cervical cancer ranks as the 2nd most frequent cancer among women in Nigeria and the 2nd most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age. About 3.5% of women in the general population are estimated to harbour cervical HPV-16/18 infection at a given time, and 66.9% of invasive cervical cancers are attributed to HPVs 16 or 18.
The Solution
It’s a clarion call to raise awareness and act against this silent killer. The World Health Assembly in 2020 adopted the Global Strategy for cervical cancer elimination.
The strategy targets:
- Vaccination: 90% of girls are vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by the age of 15;
- Screening: 70% of women screened using a high-performance test by the age of 35 and again by the age of 45.
- Treatment: 90% of women with pre-cancer treated, and 90% of women with invasive cancer managed.
The HPV vaccine is a powerful shield against the most common HPV strains that trigger cervical cancer. It’s safe, effective, it works, and youshould consider it for your daughters because it:
- Prevents cervical cancer.
- Lowers the risk of other HPV-related cancers.
- Guards against common HPV infections.
- Empowers our girls to lead healthy lives.
By vaccinating our girls aged 9-14, we are taking a crucial step towards a healthier future. We are breaking the cycle of cervical cancer and ensuring that our daughters live free from this preventable disease.
Learn More and Act: For detailed information and how to take action, visit the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency’s website: www.nphcda.gov.ng
Parents, it’s time to stand together and shield our daughters from the threat of cervical cancer. Your informed decision can change their lives. Let’s make the right choice for their health and future! #HPVProtection #CervicalCancerAwareness #ProtectOurGirls #HPVVaccineNigeria #CervicalCancerPrevention
