A Healthier Future for Girls in Nigeria: Preventing Cervical Cancer Through Routine Immunization
By Richard Adupong
Working in remote villages across Nigeria, Elizabeth Hassan stands as a beacon of hope in the fight against cervical cancer. With a resolve that combines professional expertise and personal dedication, Elizabeth embarks on journeys to underserved communities, armed with compelling evidence that the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine prevents cervical cancer. “I visit communities with photos of my daughters, who are vaccinated and healthy. It helps people see the vaccine’s safety and efficacy,” she explains. Her personal touch, sharing her family’s experience, helps dispel myths and build trust.
Elizabeth, the national focal desk officer for HPV vaccine introduction at the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, brings more than three decades of experience in health interventions to her role. She supports a crucial initiative to ensure that adolescent girls ages 9 to 14 receive the HPV vaccine. Her commitment extends beyond professional duty; it is deeply personal. “As a mother of two daughters, my motivation is to protect all young girls from this disease, ensuring they can live healthy lives and reach their full potential,” she shares.
Breaking Down Barriers in Fragile States
Delivering the HPV vaccine to Nigeria’s most fragile communities is no small feat. Fragile states face complex challenges, including widespread misinformation and entrenched cultural resistance. Yet, Elizabeth remains resolute. Her strategy involves a grassroots approach, engaging families directly and presenting her daughters as living proof of the vaccine’s benefits. This personal connection is pivotal in overcoming skepticism and fostering acceptance.
In addition to addressing misinformation, Elizabeth’s work navigates cultural norms that can impede vaccination efforts. “Some parents were initially hesitant due to misconceptions that the vaccine might lead to infertility or promote promiscuity,” Elizabeth explains. By actively engaging with local leaders and organizing community health education sessions, Elizabeth and her team work to dispel these misconceptions and emphasize the vaccine’s role in preventing cervical cancer.
A Focus on Underserved Areas
One of the standout successes of the campaign is its ability to reach remote and underserved areas. Elizabeth emphasizes, “I’m happy because a little girl in a remote community whose parents might not be able to afford the vaccine now has the opportunity to get vaccinated for free.” By making the HPV vaccine available at no cost, the program addresses health needs and alleviates the financial burden on families.
“To date, we’ve vaccinated over 12 million adolescent girls across Nigeria,” Elizabeth shares proudly, reflecting the country’s commitment to preventing cervical cancer. “This is especially critical because we face over 12,000 new cases of cervical cancer each year, and nearly 8,000 women die from it,” she explains. As the third-most common cancer and the second-leading cause of cancer deaths among women ages 15 to 44 in Nigeria, the need for widespread vaccination is urgent.
The Role of HAPPI
A significant contributor to the success of Nigeria’s HPV vaccination campaign is the HPV Vaccine Acceleration Program Partners Initiative (HAPPI), funded by the Gates Foundation and implemented by JSI and CHAI in Nigeria. The Consortium has played a pivotal role in overcoming the logistical and technical challenges associated with vaccine introduction.
“HAPPI’s support has been invaluable,” Elizabeth shares. “Their technical and logistical expertise helped us navigate the complexities of vaccine introduction and implementation in both stable and fragile states.” HAPPI’s involvement included daily monitoring, real-time coordination, and troubleshooting, which were crucial for maintaining momentum and addressing challenges as they arose.
HAPPI’s active participation in the National HPV Technical Working Group provided essential technical backing throughout the campaign. “Their involvement ensured we had the necessary support before, during, and after the vaccine introduction,” Elizabeth emphasizes. This collaboration was instrumental in helping the campaign achieve high vaccination coverage and adapt to emerging challenges.
Expanding the Reach
The HPV vaccination program’s impact is significant, but Elizabeth and her team are keenly aware that there is more work to be done. They are constantly refining their strategies to ensure that no girl is left behind. This includes improving logistical support, enhancing community outreach, and continuing to educate both parents and health care providers.
Elizabeth envisions a future where school-based vaccination programs are standard practice across Nigeria. “Integrating the HPV vaccine into routine health services and school programs would streamline delivery and maximize coverage,” she suggests. Her goal is to build a sustainable system that maintains high vaccination rates even as initial enthusiasm wanes.
The Path Forward
Looking ahead, Elizabeth is focused on sustaining and expanding the program’s success. This includes developing strategies to address any potential drop-offs in vaccine uptake and ensuring that all communities, particularly those in fragile states, continue to benefit from the program. “We must remain vigilant and proactive in our efforts to reach every girl,” she asserts.
Elizabeth’s journey is a testament to the power of personal commitment in public health. Her dedication to protecting Nigeria’s girls from cervical cancer is not just about achieving high vaccination rates; it’s about ensuring that every girl has the chance to grow up healthy and free from the threat of a preventable disease. Through her unwavering efforts and with the support of HAPPI, Elizabeth is making a profound impact on the future of Nigeria’s next generation, one vaccination at a time.
