The cervix is the lower portion of the uterus, an organ of the female reproductive tract. It connects the vagina with the main body of the uterus, acting as a gateway between them.

CERVICAL CANCER is a #sexually transmitted disease* caused by a virus Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Strange right? It is usually seen among women above the age of 40 years. However the incidence is now rising in those less than 30 

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)

It’s s the commonest gynecological cancer in our environment because of the absence of screening guidelines unlike in developed countries.

It is only seen in women who are sexually active and usually in those with multiple sexual partners So the big question is… What is multiple sexual partner*?

PREVENTION

It can be prevented through:

1. Abstinence . Very straightforward. A virgin can’t have Cervical cancer. It’s that simple.

2.FAITHFULNESS: Not just being faithful to your partner but being FAITHFUL TO A FAITHFUL PARTNER. Yes,this is very important. If you’re faithful to your partner who has 3 other partners…..I’m sorry because it’s as good as nothing. Infact it also means you’re involved indirectly with those other partners of his and that also makes you at risk of acquiring this virus. So do you trust your PARTNER? Condom doesn’t confer any protection. Don’t ever forget this.

3.VACCINE!:
This seems like the most realistic. The vaccine is available
It is recommended that they be given to all females at 11 – 12 years of age routinely, as well as girls and women age 13 – 26 years who have not been vaccinated (catch-up population), it can be given as early as 9 years of age.
These vaccines are preventive as they prevent cervical cancer and do not cute it.
All HPV vaccines should be given as a 3-dose schedule, with the second dose given 1 to 2 months after the first dose and the third dose 6 months after the first dose. The minimum interval between the first and second doses of vaccine is 4 weeks. The minimum interval between the 2nd and 3rd dose is 6weeks.

THOSE WHO ARE SEXUALLY ACTIVE BUT WISH TO RECEIVE THE VACCINE?

Individuals who are already sexually exposed who wish to receive this vaccine must first be SCREENED.

SCREENING:

This is important because Cancer of the cervix manifests slowly and first as a pre-malignant lesion (precancerous) which can take several years to become a full blown cancer. So when detected at this pre-malignant stage, it can be treated.

The screening methods include:
1. Papanicolaou test (Pap smear)

1. HPV testing

3. Colposcopy

Who isn’t eligible?

Everyone isn’t eligible for it. It can’t be given to
1. Females less than 9yrs

2.Pregnant women. It is not

recommended during pregnancy and should be given after delivery.

3.HIV patients

Click here on the link above ☝️☝️☝️☝️☝️☝️ to read about this 22yrs old girl with Cervical cancer



If you reside in Imo or within its environs and wish to receive this vaccine,  please indicate here or drop Whatsapp message at 08058542816