Aina, Anorlu, Tomori speak as NRHJN holds discourse on cervical cancer & HPV vaccination

Dr. Muyi Aina

By Sola Charles

In an effort to improve Nigerians' knowledge, education, and awareness, the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, or NPHCDA, along with leading Nigerian health experts, will discuss the introduction of the Human Papilloma Virus, or HPV, immunization program, and HPV vaccine in a public forum. 

Prof Oyewale Tomori

The Network of Reproductive Health Journalists of Nigeria (NRHJN) in collaboration with Marie Stopes International of Nigeria (MSION) is organizing a discussion titled "Cervical Cancer and HPV Vaccination: Matters Arising" that is scheduled to take place on Zoom on Friday, November 10. 

Recall that Nigeria introduced the HPV vaccine into its regular immunization program in October with the goal of vaccinating 7.7 million girls between the ages of 9 and 14 with a single dose. 

At least 70% of cervical cancers are believed to be caused by HPV strains 16 and 18, which are prevented from infection by the incredibly effective vaccination. 

The purpose of the discussion, according to a statement signed by Elizabeth Carr, the national publicity secretary, and Sekinah Lawal, the national secretary of the NRHJN, is to combat the growing number of social media campaigns and activists opposing the ongoing national Federal Government HPV mass vaccination program.

"The interaction's main goal is to increase public awareness, education, and enlightenment by providing a readily available forum for relevant government health agencies, medical professionals, and other stakeholders to exchange ideas and clarify any confusion surrounding the HPV vaccination program and vaccine," the statement reads.

Prof Rose Anorlu

Dr. Muyi Aina, the Executive Director and CEO of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), will be the Special Guest leading the interactive discussion. Her topic of discussion will be "The Role of the NPHCDA in Mitigating the Challenges and Bottlenecks Around Vaccines and Mass Vaccination Programmes in Nigeria."

Prof. Rose Anorlu, Head of Oncology & Pathological Studies at Lagos University Teaching Hospital and Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, is scheduled to talk as the main guest on "Cervical Cancer: The Right Communication for Prevention."

Professor Oyewale Tomori, a well-known virologist, consultant for the World Health Organization (WHO), and former vice-chancellor of Redeemer's University will be the second guest speaker. His topic will be "Vaccine Apathy: What to do Differently."

All participants in the Network of Reproductive Health Journalists across the 10 active states of the Federation and Development Partners on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.

It is anticipated that all Nigerians who wish to learn more about vaccinations and certain malignancies, especially cervical cancer, will be present. 

It is anticipated that testimonies from families and cancer survivors will also be presented at the virtual event.

Cervical cancer is the second most prevalent cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Nigeria between the ages of 15 and 44, and it is also the third most common cancer overall.