Abisola survived cervical cancer at age 27. She was very fortunate. Not many women diagnosed with cervical cancer in Nigeria live to tell the story. The Facts Around 14000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year in Nigeria. It is the second most common cancer after breast cancer. The main risk factor for cervical cancer is a virus called HPV (human papillomavirus). It is a very common sexually transmitted infection. There is a vaccine which protects against two strains of the HPV virus which together are responsible for most cervical cancer cases. About the Campaign We are calling on the Government of Nigeria to introduce the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into the country’s routine Immunisation programme so eligible girls can have access to it. At least 12 other African countries have introduced the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into their routine immunisation programme. Nigeria cannot be the exception especially because we have a high burden of cervical cancer. The vast majority of cervical cancer deaths are now preventable through safe and effective HPV vaccines.
Why It Matters Investment in the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine by Federal Government of Nigeria is of utmost importance. Nigeria has a rising incidence of cervical cancer. Each year, around 14000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in Nigeria. An effective vaccination programme targeted at eligible girls will considerably reduce their risks of developing cervical cancer later in life. Every one of the 14000 women diagnosed with cervical cancer cancer in Nigeria each year has a story. Each story represents the 14000 reasons why investment must be made in the HPV vaccine thereby protecting a whole generation of girls who will become women.
Join the campaign in 3 steps 1. Sign the petition at canceraware.org.ng/reasons
2. Follow the #14000Reasons hashtag on social media. 3. Share with your contacts.