Health experts are sounding the alarm over the increasing cases of cervical cancer in Nigeria, following a World Health Organisation (WHO) report revealing that the disease claims 7,968 lives annually in the country.
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Nigerian women, making up about 16% of all female cancers.
At a vaccine awareness and uptake event organized by Pathfinder in collaboration with the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Nigeria Cancer Society (NCS), and Lagos State Primary Health Care Development Board, Dr. Adeniji Adebayo from the Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board highlighted Nigeria’s high cervical cancer incidence rates.
“Nigeria has one of the highest cervical cancer rates globally. This disease impacts women’s health severely and also affects families and communities,” said Dr. Adebayo.
He explained that Human Papillomavirus (HPV), primarily transmitted through sexual contact, is the leading cause of cervical cancer.
“HPV infects the genital areas of both men and women and can also affect the mouth and throat. It spreads through vaginal, anal, and oral sex, even without visible signs or symptoms of infection.”
MWAN President, Dr. Funmi Ige, emphasized the importance of vaccination, urging parents to vaccinate their children, especially girls aged nine to 14.
“No one should believe the false rumours that vaccinations are harmful. They are essential for protecting health,” Ige said.
The Hope/ Priscilla Edet
