Approximately 56 million women in Nigeria are at risk of contracting the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to cervical cancer.
The development was revealed by Dr Mary O Alexander, a consultant with the Kogi State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (KSPHCDA)
Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Africa, after breast cancer.
Alexander made the disclosure during a one-day media dialogue on cervical cancer held in Lokoja, where she emphasized the importance of the HPV vaccine in preventing cervical cancer.
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She explained that the vaccine provides long-term protection against HPV infection and associated diseases.
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The KSPHCDA, in partnership with international donor agencies, has launched an HPV vaccination program to combat cervical cancer in the state.
Alexander stated that 16 states had already implemented the program in 2023, and Kogi State is among the 21 additional states set to commence vaccination on May 27th, 2024.
The HPV vaccination program will target young girls between the ages of 9 and 14 in Kogi State.
The Doctor revealed that strategies have been put in place to ensure the program’s success, including targeting schools, communities, designated health facilities, traditional institutions, and community members.
According to her, HPV has become a great threat to women’s health, with 600,000 infected and 59 per cent of those dying from the disease.
She stressed the urgent need to address cervical cancer and praised the efforts of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency and development partners in preventing the disease.
