First Ladies Against Cancer Unite to Eliminate Cervical Cancer in Nigeria

By Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, Chairperson FLAC.

Since the 2018 declaration by Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to eliminate cervical cancer using 3 pillars, Nigerian First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC NIGERIA) have been steadfast in pursuing these goals. Across 12 member states, we focus on grassroots education and awareness activities, high-level policy advocacy, free screening camps, patient psychological and financial support, training health workers, and upgrading infrastructure.

This Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action on November 17, 2024, and throughout the week, FLAC states carried out awareness and free screening using innovative and culturally apt methods. For instance, a nationwide free cervical cancer screening initiative targeted eligible women and ensured follow-up care for those who tested positive for precancerous lesions or cervical cancer.

In Abuja, the MEDICAID CANCER FOUNDATION sensitized a group of 250 teenagers about the disease and HPV vaccine. The event engaged children aged 10–18, parents, and religious leaders. It sought to dispel myths about the vaccine whilst reinforcing its safety and effectiveness. So far, 12.3 million girls have received the vaccine.

The Leah Medical Center (LEAH Foundation) in Kwara state, offered free screening all week in the center which was illuminated in teal.

In Enugu state, the Ugo's Touch of Life Foundation (U-TOLF) went deep into communities, sometimes unsafe areas to carry out cervical cancer awareness campaigns, educating women and leaders on the dangers of cervical cancer and the importance of early detection.

Additionally, advocacy videos and fliers by all FLAC Ladies were well-circulated on social media.

FLAC Members also organized and participated in many impactful webinars.

Nigeria bears one of the highest cervical cancer burdens in Africa, with an estimated 14,943 new cases and 9,659 deaths annually. The disease disproportionately affects women from low-income backgrounds with limited access to education and healthcare services. HPV prevalence is also notably high, with 20–30% of women infected. There are an estimated 30 million women, eligible for screening in Nigeria, yet this critical pillar is overlooked in the country's health systems. To meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target of screening 70% of women by 2030, it is crucial that HPV test manufacturers pool efforts with government and donors to significantly reduce the pricing.

FLAC’s impactful contributions to addressing these challenges have been continually recognized and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO). A statement released on the 2024 day of action noted and commended FLAC leadership in advancing cervical cancer awareness and prevention.

WHO has also supported screening activities in Kebbi, Niger, Ekiti and Ondo States. In addition, FLAC screening clinics supported by Roche are coming up across the member states. All these align with the global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health concern by 2030.

In another statement issued by Nigeria’s National Task Force Committee for Cervical Cancer Elimination, where I serve as Vice Chair, a loud call was made for united action from all stakeholders. The statement highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration and continued investment in the fight against cervical cancer in Nigeria. Clearly, one of such committed and well-placed partners is FLAC. The coalition will continue to push leaders and government for the investment required to achieve these.

FLAC is indeed making progress toward ensuring that no woman is left behind in the fight against this preventable disease.

#DrZSB #FLACNigeria #CerviicalCancerElimination #CervicalCancerEliminationDayOfAction #WHO #CancerAwareness