Arewa Cancer Control Coalition Organises Cervical Cancer Awareness Campaign in Gombe

By: Yau Waziri

The Arewa Cancer Control Coalition, in collaboration with relevant health authorities, has organised a community outreach and awareness campaign on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and cervical cancer prevention in Gombe State.

Speaking at the event, the President of the International Papillomavirus Society of Nigeria (IPVS), Professor Muhammad Manga, said the Federal Government has made significant efforts under the leadership of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, to ensure the availability of vaccines, as well as free treatment and diagnosis.

He noted that this is being achieved through key institutions such as the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment and the National Cancer Fund, in collaboration with international cancer organisations.

Professor Manga called on residents of Gombe State, especially girls between the ages of 9 and 14—to take advantage of the campaign by visiting the nearest health facilities to receive the HPV vaccine.

According to him, at least 90 percent of eligible girls should be screened and vaccinated in line with the World Health Organization (WHO) target for the global elimination of cervical cancer.

He also appealed to stakeholders, particularly religious and community leaders, to support the campaign by raising awareness among rural populations, especially women and parents, on the importance of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer.

Professor Manga further urged parents and guardians to ensure that their daughters from the age of nine are vaccinated to reduce the risk of cervical cancer across Gombe State.

In his remarks, the Director of Disease Control and Immunisation at the Gombe State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Musa Mustapha, emphasised the importance of regular screening and immunisation for early detection and proper treatment.

He called on the general public to support the initiative in order to curb the spread of the virus, particularly among young women who are more vulnerable.