The Gombe State Papillomavirus Society has expressed dismay at the lack of knowledge about cervical cancer among women in the region, pointing out that this is hindering attempts to diagnose the disease early and treat it.
The information was made public by the society as part of the “One less worry” awareness campaign in honor of the 2024 International Human Papillomavirus Awareness Day.
A Consultant Gynaecological and Oncologist, Dr. Halima Farouk, while speaking, urged women to embrace the practice of screening, adding that by doing so, death can be averted.
He said, “Human Papillomavirus is very common and doesn’t show. About 80 per cent of women carry the virus. When you have the cancer-causing type for about 15 to 20 years, it will start causing changes in the cervix of the woman, causing cervical cancer. Get your body checked and only screening can help to dictate it.”
Also speaking, a Professor of Medical Microbiology, Mohammed Manga, said the unavailability of screening centres in rural communities is a reflection of the entire health system in the country.
He claimed that several states have implemented “farm-to-farm” programs, in which government representatives visit farms to vaccinate girls and promise that the problems will be remedied with concerted effort.
He added, “However, this can be improved with the improvement of the country’s healthcare system. The vaccine can be taken to the villages and given to the girls, unlike treatment where you need machines and equipment.”
