Ghana Receives First Shipment of HPV Vaccine to Combat Cervical Cancer
Accra, Ghana - 19 June, 2025 - Ghana has taken a significant step towards protecting the health of its female population with the arrival of its first shipment of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines.
The 441,860 doses received mark the beginning of a nationwide rollout aimed at reducing the incidence of cervical cancer, a disease that claims countless lives globally.
Cervical cancer, caused by a viral infection of the female reproductive tract, is one of the most common and preventable forms of cancer affecting women. Despite its preventable nature, the disease remains a significant health challenge in many parts of the world, including Ghana, due to limited awareness, poor access to preventive services, and affordability issues.
According to a statement from UNICEF, the Ghana Health Service is set to lead a national immunization campaign in September 2025, with the support of UNICEF, which procured and shipped the vaccines. The campaign aims to protect girls and women from cervical cancer, and after its conclusion, the HPV vaccine will be offered free of charge to girls turning nine years old as part of the country's routine immunization program.
“Despite being one of the most easily preventable forms of female cancers, efforts towards cervical cancer control are hindered by a lack of knowledge about the disease, risk factors, poor access to preventive services including vaccination, and the affordability of these services. The inclusion of the HPV vaccine in the national Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) is a significant step in the right direction” part of the Statement by UNICEF read.
“Preventing cervical cancer allows girls to grow into healthy women, mothers, and leaders, contributing meaningfully to society” the statement added.
Source: Lead News Online
