In Nigeria’s intricate healthcare landscape, a hidden adversary looms large, threatening the well-being of millions. Human Papillomavirus (HPV), an insidious and widespread virus, operates in the shadows, posing a profound challenge to the nation’s health. HPV, known for infecting various body parts, is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection, often silent but harboring the potential for long-term health consequences. This article sheds light on the urgent significance of tackling HPV in Nigeria, highlighting the transformative power of the HPV vaccine—a beacon of hope for a healthier future for all.
In Nigeria, marginalized and disadvantaged communities encounter significant health difficulties associated with Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Their increased vulnerability stems from limited access to HPV vaccination, as well as insufficient awareness and education. Additionally, the lack of adequate screening and diagnostic services, compounded by financial obstacles and cultural influences, often leads to late-stage diagnoses and diminished treatment options. To address these challenges, targeted public health interventions are essential. These include awareness campaigns, the improvement of healthcare infrastructure, subsidized vaccination initiatives, community outreach programs, culturally sensitive approaches, and comprehensive data collection.
A study by Virology Journal looked at HPV infections in women with normal or abnormal cervical cell findings. They found that out of 90 samples from Nigerian women, they identified 44 different types of HPV using advanced DNA testing. After a more specific test, they confirmed 25 HPV types, with the top five being HPV71 (17%), HPV82 (15%), HPV16 (16%), HPV6 (10%), and HPV20 (7%). Among these confirmed HPV types, 40.98% were considered high-risk, 27.22% low-risk, and 31.15% couldn’t be definitively categorized. According to the HPV Centre’s report, in Nigeria, over 12,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, and nearly 8,000 of them lose their lives to the disease. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women aged 15 to 44 years in Nigeria.
These findings emphasize the urgent need for the implementation of HPV vaccination programs in Nigeria. HPV vaccines have demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in preventing HPV infections and reducing the incidence of cervical cancer. Globally, HPV-related diseases, including cervical cancer, are responsible for a significant number of deaths, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting approximately 342,000 fatalities in 2020, predominantly in low- and middle-income countries. Therefore, by prioritizing accurate data collection, proactive measures, and accessible vaccination campaigns, Nigeria plays a critical role in reducing preventable deaths, especially in rural areas, and improving the overall public health outcomes for women across the nation.
Indeed, addressing the urgent threat of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in Nigeria is of paramount national interest, and it must start at the grassroots level within healthcare centers. HPV is often concealed by young girls and women due to the stigma associated with sexually transmitted infections. To effectively combat this pressing issue, Nigeria must take immediate action, including launching extensive awareness campaigns, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, implementing subsidized vaccination programs, conducting community outreach initiatives, and adopting culturally sensitive approaches. The implementation of these measures, along with a strong emphasis on prioritizing HPV vaccination, represents a promising path toward a healthier future for Nigeria. Addressing HPV comprehensively will significantly improve public health and reduce the burden of cervical cancer, ultimately preventing both physical suffering and the stigma attached to such infections for females.
Reference list: Virology Journal, HPV Centre, World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF).
Written by Edegware Glory,
NSSF Volunteer
