Cervical cancer has been described as not just a health issue but a matter of social justice, equity, and human rights as it disproportionately affects women in low-resource settings but can be prevented with effective vaccination.
The assertion was made by the North-East Zonal Coordinator of World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Jalal-Edeen Saleh at the official flagging off of vaccination of girls ages 9-14 against the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) which causes Cervical cancer in women of reproductive age in Bauchi State, held at Bakari Dukku School, Bauchi.
Jalal-Edeen Saleh said that, “Today, we are embarking on a journey that holds the promise of transforming the health and well-being of the citizenry of Bauchi state. The Human Papillomavirus affects both women and men, but it is particularly significant for women as it is a leading cause of cervical cancer.
“I want to take this moment to commend the vision and commitment of our Governor, who has recognized the importance of protecting the lives of especially our women and girls.”
According to Jalal-Edeen Saleh, “The HPV vaccination campaign is a testament to the Governor’s dedication to public health and his determination to reduce the burden of preventable diseases in our state.
“The Wife of our Governor also deserves our appreciation for her continuous support of initiatives that empower and protect women.’
He further said that, “Similarly, I express the WHO’s deep appreciation for the invaluable support and guidance of our esteemed Royal Fathers in our mission to improve the health and well-being of our people.The World Health Organization stands in solidarity with Bauchi State as we launch this campaign.
“We firmly believe that universal access to health services is a fundamental human right, and today, we are taking a significant step towards achieving this goal.”
He added that, “By vaccinating our young girls, we are not only preventing cervical cancer, but we are also promoting gender equality, as healthy women contribute to the well-being and prosperity of our communities.
“I want to take this opportunity to urge all parents and guardians to ensure that their eligible daughters receive the HPV vaccine,” he added.
Continuing, Dr Jalal assured that “The vaccine is safe and effective, and it is our collective responsibility to protect the future of our girls. Education and awareness are equally important, and we must continue disseminating information about the importance of vaccination and regular screenings for cervical cancer.”
He then expressed WHO’s gratitude to the dedicated healthcare workers at the forefront of this campaign, saying, “Your hardwork and commitment to public health are commendable, and you are the unsung heroes in our fight against preventable diseases.
“Today, we plant the seeds of a healthier and more equitable future for Bauchi State. Let us all work together, hand in hand, to ensure that every eligible girl in our state receives the HPV vaccine. Together, we can make cervical cancer a history in Bauchi State and set an example for others to follow.”
Also speaking, the Chief of Field Office, UNICEF, Bauchi, Dr Clement Adamss, commemded Bauchi State Government for keying into the issue of HPV vaccination, stressing that it was the best thing to have done.
According to him, the vaccination will save a lot of women from the problem of cervical cancer particularly during the period of reproduction.
The UNICEF Chief of Field Office then assured that development partners will continue to support the State Government in ensuring quality, efficient and effective healthcare service delivery across the state.
He then enjoined the front line health workers to ensure that the vaccine is administered as prescribed in order to achieve the set objectives of the exercise.
The Bill and Melinda Gate as well as the Dangote Foundations stressed the importance of the vaccination in curbing the negative effect of HPV in women of reproductive age assuring that it will support the State in the exercise.
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