Stakeholders in the health sector are expressing serious concern about the increasing incidence of cervical cancer in Nigeria. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria records no fewer than 7,968 deaths annually from this disease.
Cervical cancer is currently the second most common cancer among Nigerian women. Experts report that it accounts for approximately 16 percent of all female cancers in the country. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for effective intervention and public health strategies to combat the disease.
This concern was the focus of a recent vaccine awareness and uptake program organized by Pathfinder in collaboration with the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), the Nigeria Cancer Society (NCS), and the Lagos State Primary Health Care Development Board. The event, held in Lagos, brought together medical professionals, public health experts, and community leaders to discuss strategies for increasing vaccination rates and reducing the incidence of cervical cancer.
Dr. Adeniji Adebayo, an expert at the Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board, emphasized that Nigeria has one of the highest rates of cervical cancer incidence globally. He highlighted the far-reaching impact of the disease, stating that it not only affects the physical health of women but also has significant repercussions for families and communities. Dr. Adebayo explained the primary mode of transmission for Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the virus responsible for most cases of cervical cancer.
“Human Papillomavirus, HPV, is primarily transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, usually through sexual activity. The virus infects the genital areas of both men and women and can also affect the mouth and throat. The most common mode of transmission is through sexual intercourse, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The virus can be passed from one person to another even if there are no visible signs of infection or symptoms.”
Dr. Adebayo stressed the importance of vaccination as the most effective means of preventing HPV infections. He noted that vaccines are available to protect against the most common and high-risk HPV strains that cause cancer and genital warts. “The vaccine is typically recommended for pre-teens and young adults, ideally before they become sexually active. Nigeria is planning to introduce a single dose HPV vaccine (Gardasil) into the routine immunization schedule this year to protect against viral transmission.”
Dr. Funmi Ige, President of MWAN, underscored the association’s commitment to the health of both men and women. She called on parents to ensure their children, especially young girls between the ages of nine and 14, receive the HPV vaccine. “Nobody should peddle rumours that people would be killed through vaccination because it is false. We want to take this message everywhere and we also encourage people to take this message to the grassroots because getting vaccinated is for everyone’s good,” Ige said.
The event also featured remarks from Mr. Bayo Ewuola, Media and Communications Officer at Pathfinder. He explained the objectives of the project, which aims to enhance HPV vaccine awareness and uptake in Nigeria. “This project is to enhance HPV vaccine awareness and uptake in Nigeria. Taking care of cervical cancer is very expensive, so it is easier to prevent. That is why we are partnering with stakeholders to increase awareness in the country, particularly in Lagos State because Lagos has a high population and only a few have received the vaccine. Treatment is different from cure, and we are at the preventive part.”
The stakeholders at the event highlighted several key points that need to be addressed to combat the rising cases of cervical cancer in Nigeria. Firstly, there is a need for widespread public education campaigns to inform the populace about the risks of HPV and the benefits of vaccination. Misconceptions and false information about vaccines need to be countered with factual, science-based messaging.
Secondly, the introduction of the HPV vaccine into the national immunization schedule represents a significant step forward. However, ensuring that the vaccine reaches the target population, particularly young girls, is crucial. This requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations to ensure the vaccine is accessible and affordable.
Thirdly, there is a need for ongoing support for women who are already affected by cervical cancer. This includes improving access to diagnostic services, treatment options, and palliative care. By addressing the disease at all stages, from prevention to treatment, the burden of cervical cancer on Nigerian women can be significantly reduced.
The collaboration between Pathfinder, MWAN, NCS, and the Lagos State Primary Health Care Development Board exemplifies the kind of multi-sectoral approach needed to tackle complex public health issues like cervical cancer. By working together, these organizations aim to create a robust and sustainable framework for HPV vaccination and cervical cancer prevention in Nigeria.
The rising cases of cervical cancer in Nigeria call for urgent and coordinated action. The statistics are a stark reminder of the challenges ahead, but with continued effort and collaboration, it is possible to make significant progress in reducing the incidence and impact of this devastating disease. The stakeholders’ commitment to increasing vaccine awareness and uptake is a critical step in the right direction, offering hope for a future where cervical cancer is no longer a leading cause of death among Nigerian women.
