Health
UNICEF Strengthens Efforts To Combat Cervical Cancer In Nigeria
The United Nations Children’s Fund has strengthened its efforts in combating the prevalence of cervical cancer in Nigeria, saying the acceptability of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine by citizens would bring about eradication or reduction of the cases of the disease.
UNICEF cleared the air about misinformation, rumours, misconceptions and myths surrounding HPV vaccination of girls across the country, saying the vaccine remains the surest means of preventing cervical cancer among girls and women.
The international body made this known yesterday during a two-day media dialogue workshop held in Lagos State on “Combating the most preventable form of deadly cancer affecting women and girls (HPV) Through Vaccination.”
Speaking on the “Update on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine Introduction Plan,” a Health Specialist with UNICEF, Dr Ijeoma Agbo, disclosed that the HPV vaccine campaign is for girls aged 9 to 14, disclosing that the vaccine would assist the targeted girls do not get infected with cervical cancer.
According to Agbo, an estimated 604,000 new cases with 342,000 deaths occurred globally in 2020, while 12,075 cases and 7,968 deaths were recorded in Nigeria.
She stressed the need for aggressive advocacy in the vaccination of girls against HPV in order to battle and reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
While harping on the need for communities as well as religious institutions to key into the drive, UNICEF described the prioritisation of HPV vaccination as a crucial public health intervention.
The specialist maintained that the HPV vaccine is an effective and safe means to protect girls from developing cervical cancer later in life.
Agbo noted that the vaccine protects against HPV types 16 and 18 and provides cross-protection for types 31, 33, and 35, including the serotypes causing anogenital warts.
She said, “HPV can also cause a range of conditions in men and women, including other types of anogenital cancer (vagina, vulva, anus, penis), head and neck cancers, and genital warts.
“It accounts for 29.5% of infection-related cancers globally and greater than half of all reported infection-attributable cancers in women.
“Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally and the second most common cancer affecting women in Nigeria.
“This high burden of cervical cancer is attributed to several factors, including poor access to HPV vaccination services, poor screening and treatment services, low awareness, and inadequate access to healthcare, especially in rural areas.”
She further debunked misinformation that the HPV vaccine sterilizes girls and neither is it meant to depopulate the population of Nigerians.
On his part, the Immunisation Programme Coordinator, Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (PHCB), Dr Adetola Akinpelu, who reeled out the efforts of the state government in the vaccine coverage in the state, stressed that the target was to vaccinate at least 80 per cent of girls aged between 9 and 14 years by December 2024.
Also clearing the air that the vaccine is not harmful to those who receive it, Akinpelu said, “Our targets are to achieve routine HPV coverage of at least 69 per cent for girls aged 9 years by December 2025; achieve a minimum of a 4 per cent annual increase in routine HPV coverage by December 2026; disseminate information on primary, secondary, and tertiary preventive measures across the LGAs.”
According to the Communication Officer, UNICEF, Blessing Ejiofor, efforts must be geared towards increased awareness, particularly at the grassroots, to promote the benefits of HPV vaccination and dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding it.
Ejiofor enjoined participating journalists to become active advocates by using their various platforms to draw the attention of everyone to the issue in order to achieve adequate coverage and make the nation cervical cancer-free.
Health
UNICEF to vaccinate 3.8 million children in Northern Nigeria
The United Nations Children’s Fund has disclosed that no fewer than 3.8 million children would be vaccinated against measles across four Northern states.
The UNICEF Health Officer in Bauchi state, Patrick Ako, disclosed this in a news conference on Friday, noting that the vaccination exercise would commence on Saturday and run for seven days.
He highlighted that the four Northern states where the integrated measles campaign would take place include Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, and Plateau.
“For the measles campaign, we have a target of 3.8 million children from nine months to 59 months, which we are targeting across the four states.
“We have received in all the states a total of over 4 million doses of measles vaccines which have been supplied across the four states,” Ako stated.
The Health Officer explained that UNICEF is also going to launch an oral vaccination campaign against polio across five Northern states.
He said, “For the oral polio vaccination, we have a target of 6.8 million children that we are going to reach from zero to 59 months, which is less than five years across five states of Taraba, Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe,e, and Adamawa.
“The total number of vaccines that have already gotten to them is 7.4 million doses across these five states.
“We are looking at it that no child should be left behind; all children of an eligible age group should be reached and be vaccinated.”
Also speaking, a Social Behavioural Change Specialist at UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, George Eki, said it became imperative for UNICEF to support the Nigerian government in protecting children against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases.
Health
5 questions to ask your doctor before starting birth control
It’s normal to have questions about what birth control method is right for you.
Starting birth control is a big decision, and it can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure what questions to ask your doctor.
With so many options available, from pills and patches to implants and IUDs, it’s understandable if you’re feeling confused or anxious.
Finding the right method isn’t just about preventing pregnancy; it’s also about making sure you feel comfortable and healthy with your choice. Your doctor is there to guide you, but it’s important to come prepared with questions that address your concerns, lifestyle, and future plans.
1. What types of birth control are available?
When it comes to birth control, one size does not fit all. Ask your doctor about the different methods available, such as the pill, IUD (intrauterine device), patch, ring, implant, or shot.
Your doctor can explain how each method works, how effective they are, and what the pros and cons are. For example, if you prefer something long-term, an IUD might be a better option. But if you like having more control, the pill could work well.
2. What are the possible side effects?
Every type of birth control has possible side effects. Some people may experience nausea, headaches, weight changes, or mood swings, while others have no side effects at all. It’s important to ask your doctor about what you might expect. If you’re sensitive to hormones, your doctor can suggest non-hormonal options, like the copper IUD. Being aware of side effects in advance can help you know what to look out for and decide what you’re comfortable with.
3. How will birth control affect my period?
Birth control can change your menstrual cycle in different ways. Some methods may make your periods lighter or stop them completely, while others may cause irregular bleeding at first.
If having regular periods is important to you, make sure to mention this to your doctor. They can help you choose a method that aligns with your preferences. If your periods are painful or heavy, certain types of birth control may even help reduce those symptoms.
4. Will birth control interact with my current medications or health conditions?
If you have existing health issues, like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of blood clots, some birth control options may not be safe for you. Also, if you’re taking medication for any condition, ask whether it might affect how well your birth control works. Your doctor can guide you to options that won’t interfere with your health or current treatments. Safety should always come first when choosing birth control.
5. What happens if I want to get pregnant in the future?
You’ll need to ask how quickly you can become fertile again after stopping birth control. Some methods, like the pill or the patch, allow for a quick return to fertility, while others, like the shot, may take longer.
If you’re thinking about starting a family in the future, talk to your doctor about which birth control options will work best for your timeline. Planning ahead can make transitioning easier when the time comes.
Health
Cholera claims 10 lives in Enugu
The Enugu State Ministry of Health has confirmed the death of 10 people following a cholera outbreak in the state.
In a letter addressed to the Guild of Medical Directors on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Emmanuel Obi, Dr Egwuonwu Samuel, Director of Medical Services, announced the outbreak and the swift actions being taken to prevent further spread.
The ministry reported several alarming cases of cholera, resulting in 10 fatalities so far. Efforts are already underway by the State Ministry of Health and its partners to contain the outbreak.
“Health facilities and personnel are advised to stay alert for symptoms like acute diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting,” said Dr. Egwuonwu.
“We are calling for the immediate implementation of heightened Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures in all medical facilities to stop the spread.”
He urged medical practitioners to take extra precautions and report suspected cases swiftly.
“This outbreak poses a significant public health threat, as cholera is a highly contagious disease typically spread through contaminated water or food. The ministry’s swift action is critical to containing the outbreak and protecting public health.”
Dr. Egwuonwu also appealed to the public to practice strict hygiene measures, including boiling water before drinking, frequent hand washing, and avoiding poorly handled food.
He noted that the Enugu State government would provide further guidelines and updates as the situation develops, while efforts continue in collaboration with local and international health partners to mitigate the outbreak.
(NAN)
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