Korede Abdullah in Lagos
According to Dr. Uzoma Ugochukwu, a public health specialist, the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV) is a vital tool in preventing cervical cancer in Nigeria.
Speaking at a media seminar on HPV vaccine awareness in Abuja on Tuesday, Dr. Ugochukwu emphasized the importance of supporting the government’s efforts to ensure girls aged 9-14 have access to the HPV vaccine.
“This project is dear to the Nigeria Cancer Society, and also to reach out to the media to address the myths and misconception about HPV vaccine across the country,” he said.
Dr. Ugochukwu highlighted the alarming statistics surrounding cervical cancer, noting that HPV types 16 and 18 cause about 70% of cervical cancers, while HPV types 6 and 11 cause about 90% of anogenital warts.
He also mentioned that 528,000 cases of cervical cancer and 266,000 women deaths occur each year, with 85% of cases found in less developed regions.
To combat this, Dr. Ugochukwu explained that three highly efficacious vaccines are available, including Bivalent, Qudanivalent, and Nonavalent vaccines.
Dr. Ugochukwu stressed that the HPV vaccines are most efficacious when administered before exposure to the virus, and that none of the vaccines can treat women with current HPV infection or related disease.
