Experts urge Nigerians to embrace early screening, HPV vaccine

Category : Colorectal Cancer | Sub Category : Colorectal Cancer2 Posted on 2026-03-31 03:51:11

As Nigeria joined the world to mark World Cancer Day 2026, health professionals used the occasion to renew crucial calls for increased cancer awareness, routine early screening, and broader access to HPV vaccination — key strategies in preventing and controlling cancer in the country. (P.M. News)

? Theme and Message

This year’s global theme, “United by Unique,” highlighted the shared human experience of cancer and the importance of collective action to reduce its burden. Nigerian health experts emphasised that cancer is more manageable and often curable when detected early — making regular screening and vaccination critical public‑health priorities. (P.M. News)

? Why Early Screening Matters

Medical professionals attending World Cancer Day events explained that many cancers, especially breast, cervical and prostate cancer, are often diagnosed at an advanced stage in Nigeria — when treatment is more difficult and costlier. They urged Nigerians to make routine medical check‑ups and cancer screening part of regular healthcare to improve outcomes. (P.M. News)

According to experts, cancers detected in stage 1 or 2 are often easier to treat, less expensive, and associated with higher survival rates compared with advanced disease. (P.M. News)

? The Case for HPV Vaccination

Health professionals also emphasised the importance of HPV vaccination as a powerful preventive tool against cervical cancer — a leading cancer among Nigerian women. The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine protects against the high‑risk HPV strains that cause most cervical cancers worldwide. (Wikipedia)

Global evidence shows that HPV vaccines significantly reduce the risk of infection and precancerous cervical changes when given before exposure to the virus, ideally in early adolescence. (Wikipedia)

? Calls to Action from Health Experts

Experts at the World Cancer Day event urged Nigerians to:

• Prioritise regular cancer screenings, especially for breast, cervical, and prostate cancers. (P.M. News)

• Take advantage of available cancer prevention services in communities and healthcare facilities nationwide. (P.M. News)

• Support and uptake HPV vaccination as a long‑term strategy to reduce cervical cancer risk. (Wikipedia)

• Spread awareness among family, friends and communities about the benefits of early detection and vaccination. (P.M. News)

? Why This Is Important

Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable forms of cancer globally when appropriate prevention measures — like HPV vaccination and routine screening — are embraced. Public‑health efforts that increase access to both can significantly reduce future cancer deaths and improve quality of life for Nigerians. (Wikipedia)

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World Cancer Day 2026 in Nigeria was not just about awareness — it was a call to action. Health experts stressed that early detection saves lives, and embracing HPV vaccination is a vital step toward cervical cancer prevention. Nigerian families, communities, and healthcare systems are encouraged to take these messages seriously to help curb the country’s cancer burden now and in the future. (P.M. News)