By Binta Nuan
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Nasarawa State Chapter, along with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), has partnered with Pathfinder International to raise awareness about Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a leading cause of cervical cancer.
The HPV sensitization workshop in Lafia brought together media professionals to raise awareness about the risks of HPV and highlight the importance of vaccination.
Speaking at the workshop, Fatima Maha, the Nasarawa State Coordinator of the HPV Champions and Advocacy Engagement Project for Pathfinder International, emphasized that HPV is a significant public health issue.
Maha emphasized that cervical cancer is the second leading cause of death among women, following breast cancer. Unlike breast cancer, cervical cancer often does not show symptoms until it has progressed to an advanced stage.
According to her, the HPV vaccine was a crucial tool in preventing cervical cancer, noting that both girls and boys can take the vaccine.
She, however, noted that the vaccine was not readily available for boys and older women due to limited supply, and that Nigeria was prioritizing girls aged 9 because they are believed to have not had sexual contact and have strong immune systems.
Maha called on media personnel to spread the information about HPV and become ambassadors and change agents in their communities.
She also emphasised the need for collaboration between organisations to address the myths and misconceptions surrounding the HPV vaccine.
In his remarks, Comrade Smah George, Chairman of SWAN in the State, expressed gratitude to Pathfinder International for partnering with SWAN to tackle health issues affecting women. He emphasized that the goal was to educate Female Athletes, Women in Sports, NAWOJ, and SWAN members.
He commended Pathfinder International for its efforts to reduce cases of HPV in Nasarawa State and urged participants to use their platforms to educate people on the dangers of HPV. Also speaking, Patricia Akawu, Director of News and Current Affairs at Nasarawa Broadcasting Service (NBS), noted that the sensitisation would help educate the populace, especially at the grassroots level, about HPV.
The NAWOJ chairperson in the State and HPV champion highlighted the importance of prioritizing health, avoiding myths and misconceptions surrounding HPV vaccination. She urged the public to take the Vaccination seriously and promote awareness to encourage more people to get vaccinated.
The collaboration between SWAN, NAWOJ, and Pathfinder International is a step towards promoting public health and reducing the incidence of cervical cancer in Nasarawa State.
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