The Access to Basic Medical Care Foundation has warned that engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners significantly heightens the risk of cervical cancer, as the Human Papillomavirus—responsible for more than 95 per cent of cervical cancer cases—is primarily transmitted through sexual contact.
The warning was issued during a sensitisation programme for secondary school students in Ibadan on Monday, held to mark the 2024 World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day.
During the event, Medical Officer with the Foundation, Dr Anjola Oluwadamilola, noted that because at least 80 per cent of women are exposed to HPV during their lifetime, young girls must receive the HPV vaccine before sexual debut to reduce their risk of future infection.
She said, “The most important risk factor for cervical cancer is infection with the human papillomavirus; more than 95 per cent is due to HPV. At least 80 per cent of women are exposed to the HPV virus during their lifetime.
“HPV is spread by direct skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal intercourse, or any other contact involving the genital area.
“Since HPV is transmitted by sexual contact, having multiple sexual partners is associated with an increased risk for cervical cancer; serotype 16 and 18 are the culprits. The vaccine works best if a person gets it before sexual exposure, but it can also help if you have already had sex.”
Anjola added that early marriage, early sexual debut, early pregnancy, and short intervals between pregnancies also increase susceptibility to cervical cancer, alongside other factors such as smoking, poor access to screening, and immunosuppression.
She stressed the importance of timely HPV vaccination—especially for girls aged nine to 14—and encouraged older adolescents and young women to take advantage of the “catch-up” vaccine available for those aged 15 to 26.
She further emphasised regular screening once women become sexually active, recommending Pap tests from age 21 and HPV testing from age 25, repeated every five years.
The event, themed “Act Now; Eliminate Cervical Cancer,” featured talks for students of the TAAS Group of Schools and Comfort De Johnson Royal College, Ibadan.
Also speaking, Chief of Operations of the Foundation, Dr Olamiji Ajanaku, expressed concern that despite being one of the most preventable cancers, cervical cancer remains a leading cause of death among women, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Ajanaku said, “Globally, over 660,000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2022, and sadly, 350,000 women lost their lives. In Africa, our women bear a disproportionate burden, nearly 94 per cent of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries like ours.
“But here’s the truth: cervical cancer is preventable. Almost 99 per cent of cases are linked to HPV, and that’s why prevention through vaccination and screening is critical.
“The HPV vaccine is safe. It’s effective. And it gives our girls lifelong protection before they are ever exposed to risk.
“So, today, we call on every parent, every teacher, every faith leader, and every community champion: Let’s ensure every girl between the ages of 9 and 14 receives her HPV vaccine. Let’s encourage every woman aged 30 to 49 to get screened. And let’s make sure that no woman who needs treatment is left behind.”
Others who spoke at the event included the Foundation’s Head of Administration, Mrs Busayo Adeyoyin; Human Resources Manager, Mr Oladimeji Akanni; and Head of Programmes, Mr Kadan David.
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