Health experts have renewed calls for Nigerians, particularly women of reproductive age, to prioritise early detection of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) as a key strategy for reducing the country’s growing cervical cancer burden.
The call was made by the Chief Executive Officer of Inocul8, Emmanuel Egbroko, during the launch of the “Stay Protected Always” campaign, an initiative designed to improve awareness about HPV, expand access to screening services and dispel myths surrounding the virus.
Egbroko warned that HPV often remains a silent infection for years, causing many individuals to remain unaware of their status until serious health complications arise.
“Many people do not know they are infected until it is too late. Early screening can detect changes before they turn into cancer, and timely vaccination can prevent infection entirely,” he said.
Public health data highlight the seriousness of the situation. Cervical cancer is currently the second most common cancer among Nigerian women and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the country.
Health experts estimate that thousands of new cases and deaths are recorded each year, largely due to late detection and limited access to screening services.
Medical studies show that about 70 per cent of global cervical cancer cases are linked to high-risk HPV strains, particularly types 16 and 18.
Although cervical cancer is the most common disease associated with HPV, Egbroko noted that the virus can also lead to other serious health conditions.
He explained that high-risk strains of HPV have been linked to cancers of the anus, vagina, penis and throat, while lower-risk strains are known to cause genital warts in both men and women.
“No woman should die from a disease that can be prevented. Early detection and vaccination are the most powerful tools we have to protect lives,” Egbroko said.
The Stay Protected Always campaign aims to go beyond awareness by providing practical support, including information on screening locations and improved access to HPV vaccines.
According to Inocul8, the initiative seeks to address long-standing barriers to HPV prevention in Nigeria, such as cultural misconceptions, stigma and limited healthcare infrastructure.
Health advocates say improving awareness and access to vaccination could significantly reduce cervical cancer deaths and help Nigeria make progress in preventing HPV-related diseases.
The campaign also aligns with broader public health efforts aimed at encouraging Nigerians to take proactive steps toward preventive healthcare.
Egbroko urged citizens, especially women, to prioritise regular screening and vaccination to protect themselves and their families from preventable diseases.
