Amid growing concerns about public health and cancer prevention, the Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) has emphasized the transformative potential of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which can prevent over 70% of cervical cancer cases.
This statistic was shared during a press briefing at the end of a Seminar for Health Reporters in Enhancing Vaccine Awareness and Uptake in Nigeria organised by Nigerian Cancer Society ( NCS) in Abuja, Nigeria’s Capital.
The society called on the media to play a pivotal role in driving awareness and uptake of vaccine to combat cervical cancer in Nigeria.
Citing data from the World Health Organization (WHO), NCS President, Professor Abidemi Omonisi, warned that cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in the country, with thousands of preventable cases reported annually.
“HPV vaccination is a proven solution to reduce the incidence and mortality associated with cervical cancer. We need widespread awareness to ensure this lifesaving intervention reaches every eligible Nigerian,” he stated.
Prof. Omonisi also highlighted the progress made in 2024, including the WHO’s recognition of Nigeria as a priority country for childhood cancer interventions and the establishment of the first child cancer registry in the nation.
However, he stressed the need for sustained advocacy to address cancer prevention holistically.
The press briefing introduced participants to initiatives such as the Youth Coalition Against Cancer, a program designed to engage young Nigerians in community-driven awareness campaigns.
“Youth involvement is key to creating lasting change in cancer prevention efforts,” Prof. Omonisi added.
In anticipation of World Cancer Day on February 4, 2025, the NCS outlined plans for intensified advocacy, including policy dialogues, stakeholder engagements, and expanded vaccination campaigns targeting rural and underserved communities.
The society also used the platform to appeal for increased government and private sector funding to establish a dedicated Cancer Aid Fund.
“This fund would alleviate the financial burden on cancer patients and strengthen the healthcare system’s capacity to combat rising cancer cases across the country.”
Health Journalists were urged to use their platforms to disseminate accurate information about HPV vaccination and cervical cancer prevention strategies.
“Media professionals have a unique role in shaping public perception and encouraging positive health behaviors,” Prof. Omnisi emphasized.
The immediate past President of the Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS), Dr. Adamu Alhassan called for strengthened efforts to promote the uptake of the HPV vaccine as a critical tool in preventing cervical cancer in Nigeria.
Speaking during his presentation, he emphasized the importance of vaccinating girls aged 9 to 14 before exposure to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is responsible for over 90% of cervical cancer cases.
He also addressed misconceptions about the vaccine, underscoring its role in safeguarding women’s health.
Dr. Alhassan recounted the history of HPV vaccine introduction in Nigeria, noting the initial donation of 800,000 doses and the subsequent integration of the vaccine into the national immunization schedule.
Despite the progress, he highlighted persistent challenges such as vaccine availability, stressing the need for consistent advocacy and logistical planning to ensure accessibility across the country.
He further elaborated on the HPV vaccine uptake project initiated during his tenure, supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and other partners.
“The project, launched in 2023, focused on advocacy and awareness campaigns in states like Lagos, Kano, and Kaduna.
“Strategies included school-based programs, community engagements, and media outreach to dispel myths about cervical cancer and HPV vaccines, particularly among underserved populations,” he said.
A consultant with the Nigerian Cancer Society, Dr. Uzoma Ugochukwu, revealed that HPV types 16 and 18 account for 70% of cervical cancer cases, while types 6 and 11 are responsible for 90% of anogenital warts.
Dr. Ugochukwu highlighted the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendation for routine HPV vaccination of girls aged 9 to 14 years, prior to sexual activity, to ensure maximum efficacy in preventing cervical cancer.
He lamented that cervical cancer remains a significant health burden, with 528,000 cases and over 266,000 deaths globally each year, 85% of which occur in developing nations like Nigeria.
“Early screening and treatment can drastically improve outcomes, but many Nigerian women do not access such services,” he said.
Dr. Ugochukwu also outlined the two-dose vaccine schedule recommended for younger girls and the three-dose schedule for those over 15 or with compromised immune systems, urging stakeholders to prioritize vaccine accessibility and awareness campaigns.
Dr. Ugochukwu praised efforts by WHO, Gavi, and the Nigerian government to integrate HPV vaccines into the national immunization schedule, while advocating for local vaccine production to enhance sustainability.
He further stressed the need for comprehensive strategies targeting girls aged 9 to 14 for broader population impact. As cervical cancer takes about 10 years to develop, the consultant called on families to encourage regular screening and vaccination as preventive measures to save lives.
The media engagement was a call for collective action were stakeholders were reminded that reducing cervical cancer cases in Nigeria requires a united effort, involving healthcare providers, policymakers, the media, and the general public.
“With increased HPV vaccine awareness and uptake, NCS believes that cervical cancer can become a preventable tragedy of the past.”
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