The Network Lead of Anglo West Africa at Roche Diagnostics, Mr. Roberto Taboada, has urged the federal government to increase investment in combating Human Papillomavirus (HPV), highlighting it as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Nigerian women.

In a statement on Monday following a virtual interview, Taboada identified poor healthcare infrastructure, limited access to HPV screening, low awareness, and financial constraints as the primary obstacles to early detection and treatment of cervical cancer in Nigeria. He emphasized that many women, especially in rural areas, struggle to access screening due to a shortage of healthcare facilities offering HPV-DNA testing.

HPV remains a significant health concern in Nigeria, with a high prevalence of high-risk types, particularly HPV 16 and 18, which are responsible for approximately 66.9% of cervical cancer cases in the country. However, access to screening remains inadequate, compounded by cultural beliefs, misinformation, and economic barriers.

“HPV testing is crucial for cervical cancer prevention, yet awareness remains low, and stigma prevents many from getting tested,” Taboada said. He called for increased access to self-sampling kits and the integration of HPV screening into routine healthcare services. “Expanding access to self-sampling kits, integrating HPV screening into routine healthcare, and increasing awareness through targeted outreach can help improve testing rates.”

On improving HPV vaccination rates, Taboada stressed the importance of tackling misinformation, ensuring vaccine availability, and addressing gaps in healthcare infrastructure. He pointed out that many parents remain unaware of the vaccine or fear its side effects due to misinformation. Additionally, inconsistent vaccine supply in healthcare facilities further complicates vaccination efforts.

“Public education campaigns, school-based vaccination programs, and partnerships with private healthcare providers could boost uptake,” he noted. He also highlighted the need for a community-based approach: “Breaking societal taboos requires a multi-faceted approach involving community leaders, religious organizations, and healthcare professionals. Public awareness campaigns should use trusted messengers to provide accurate information about HPV and cervical cancer. Schools and organizations must incorporate reproductive health education so young girls can make informed decisions.”

Taboada urged the Nigerian government to implement a nationwide HPV screening program, integrate cervical cancer screening into maternal health services, and establish sustainable funding for vaccination and treatment. He also emphasized the need for training healthcare providers in HPV screening and using digital outreach technologies to increase participation.

He called for Nigeria to align with the World Health Organization’s August 2020 strategy to eliminate cervical cancer, which includes vaccinating 90% of girls by age 15, screening 70% of women with a high-quality test by age 45, and ensuring treatment for 90% of women diagnosed with cervical cancer.

“By addressing these issues and aligning efforts with global strategies, Nigeria can significantly reduce the burden of cervical cancer, saving lives and improving the overall health of women across the country,” he stated.

Investing in cervical cancer prevention not only saves lives but also reduces the economic burden on families and the healthcare system by preventing costly late-stage treatments.

“Women are a vital part of the workforce, particularly in agriculture and small businesses, so their health directly impacts economic productivity,” Taboada said. “Preventing cervical cancer also supports gender equality by ensuring women can fully participate in social and economic activities.”

Taboada stressed that collaboration between the government and private sector is essential to expanding screening and vaccination access. Private healthcare providers, he suggested, could offer subsidized HPV testing and treatment, while pharmaceutical companies could work to lower vaccine costs.

“International organizations could provide funding, technical support, and advocacy to strengthen Nigeria’s cervical cancer prevention efforts,” he added. “Mobile clinics, community health workers, and self-sampling kits could further improve screening access in remote areas, while telemedicine could help educate and guide women through the process. Government investment in rural healthcare infrastructure and targeted outreach programs can bridge the gap.”

Taboada underscored the importance of regular HPV screening, early treatment, and widespread vaccination in saving lives.

“Policymakers must prioritize smart funding and infrastructure allocation, healthcare professionals must encourage testing, and women must take charge of their health by getting screened and vaccinated,” he concluded.