In a united effort to raise awareness and eradicate cervical cancer globally, every year, the entire month of January has been designated as World Cervical Cancer Awareness Month which is a global healthcare event,
The 2024 Cervical Health Awareness Month is marked by the impactful theme: “Learn, Prevent Screen” emphasizing the necessity of educating people with knowledge about minimizing cervical cancer risks and the life-saving importance of regular screenings.
Cervical cancer is a condition where there is an abnormal growth or proliferation of the cells lining the cervix (the part that connects the uterus and the vagina) or the lower portion of the uterus. The infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common cause (about 90%) of cervical cancer.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global incidence of cervical cancer in 2020 was estimated to be 6,04,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths, marking it as the fourth most prominent cancer in women. India accounts for an incidence (new cases) of nearly one-fourth of global cases of cervical cancer every year, with a mortality rate of nearly one-third.
In Nigeria, according to health reports, cervical cancer is the third most common cancer and the second most frequent cause of cancer deaths among women aged between 15 and 44 years. Among Nigerian women, an estimated 12,000 new cases and about 8,000 deaths from cervical cancer have been recorded as of 2020.
This month-long global campaign aims to educate individuals on the importance of cervical health, encourage preventive measures, and emphasize the significance of regular screenings. Cervical cancer, a largely preventable disease, claims thousands of lives each year with various international and local groups coming together to raise awareness of cervical cancer through multiple campaigns and activities. The “Learn, Prevent, Screen” initiative seeks to change this narrative by empowering communities with knowledge and resources.
Understanding the risk factors and adopting healthy lifestyle choices are pivotal steps in the prevention of cervical cancer. Educational programs, workshops, and online resources will be readily available to disseminate information on the virus, vaccination, and the critical role of early detection.
These preventive methods are limited in low- and middle-income countries, and cervical cancer is not diagnosed until the symptoms have progressed. Therefore, there is a need for cervical cancer awareness (especially in low- and middle-income countries) to educate women about cervical cancer risk factors, symptoms, and preventive actions. It is critical to promote awareness about the necessity of frequent cervical cancer screenings and the HPV vaccine’s availability.
According to an article by Pace Hospitals in India, cervical screening regularly can help in preventing both localised and non-localised cervical cancer. Since the 1960s, screening has successfully prevented cervical cancer on a community basis. In a 2016 study, subjects with three yearly screenings prevented 83% of non-localised cancers and 48% of stage I cancers compared to women who had not been screened in five years.
When compared to women who did not attend a screening for 5 years, women who attended screening frequently (a minimum of two screens at least ten months apart) had a 90% reduction in the odds of non-localised cervical cancer and a 57% reduction in the odds of stage I cervical cancer.
Experts emphasize lifestyle changes, including quitting smoking, adopting a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight, as key components of cervical cancer prevention. The campaign will highlight these measures, inspiring individuals to take charge of their well-being and reduce their risk.
Experts also unanimously agree that vaccination is a powerful weapon against the spread of HPV and consequently, cervical cancer. The vaccine, administered to young girls and boys, serves as a preventive shield, significantly reducing the risk of HPV infection.
Routine Pap smear and HPV test enables early detection of cervical changes, allowing for prompt medical intervention. Promoting safe sexual practices, including the use of condoms remains crucial in reducing HPV transmission risk.
It is in line with this health concern that the Federal Ministry of Health of Nigeria introduced the Free Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination Programme, for pre-teen girls between 9 to 14 years with a single dose. The programme is said to introduce the HPV Vaccine into its routine immunization system, aiming to reach 7.7 million girls in a vaccination drive against the virus that causes nearly all cases of cervical cancer. This is said to be the largest number in a single round of HPV vaccination in the African region.
The First phase of the mass vaccination campaign in schools and communities has already been conducted in 16 states across Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The second phase of the vaccination is set to commence in May 2024 across 21 states of the Federation. The programme is aimed at ensuring that over 16 million girls can be protected in Nigeria alone by 2025.
Recognizing the importance of cultural sensitivity, awareness campaigns are tailored to resonate with diverse ethnic groups. Traditional leaders and influencers play a pivotal role in disseminating information, ensuring that the “Learn, Prevent, Screen” message transcends cultural boundaries.
Regular screenings are crucial for the early detection of cervical abnormalities. The “Learn, Prevent, Screen” campaign encourages individuals to prioritize routine check-ups and screenings, fostering a proactive approach to cervical health. Health organizations worldwide will offer accessible screening services, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of early detection.
This initiative sees collaboration between governments, healthcare organizations, NGOs, and community leaders worldwide. The goal is to create a united front against cervical cancer, breaking down barriers to access, and promoting health equity. Vaccines are being provided for free across some countries of the world with support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO), and other partners.
The Nigerian government has thrown its weight behind the cervical cancer awareness campaign, advocating for policies that prioritize women’s health. Increased funding for healthcare infrastructure, vaccination programs, and awareness campaigns underscores a commitment to eradicating cervical cancer in the country.
As the world unites under the banner of “Learn, Prevent, Screen,” January promises to be a transformative month in the global fight against cervical cancer. Through education, prevention, and regular screenings, communities worldwide can make significant strides in reducing the burden of this disease and paving the way for a healthier future. Join the movement and be part of the change – because together, we can eradicate cervical cancer.
