Cervical cancer remains a significant health threat globally, ranking as the fourth most common cancer among women. In Kenya, it is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, with approximately 5,845 new cases and 3,591 deaths annually. Despite the availability of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which can prevent cervical cancer, many women are missing out on this life-saving intervention due to a combination of misinformation, misconceptions, and lack of awareness.
Selina Akose, a 32-year-old mother from Nairobi, is one of the many women who have not received the HPV vaccine. She admits that her busy schedule and lack of information about cervical cancer prevention have led her to overlook both screening and vaccination. She believed that the vaccine was only for young children, and she never considered it necessary after a certain age. Misconceptions like these, along with rumors about the vaccine being linked to family planning, have contributed to a general reluctance to embrace the vaccine.
The situation is further complicated by cultural taboos surrounding women’s health. Many men, like Said Abdi from Majengo, avoid discussing topics related to women’s sexuality, including cervical cancer and HPV vaccination. This lack of engagement leaves the responsibility for seeking out information and making healthcare decisions to women, who may be unaware of the vaccine’s importance or have limited access to accurate information.
In some communities, misinformation spreads easily, leading to widespread fears about the vaccine’s safety. For example, some parents believe that vaccinating their children could affect their future fertility. Such misconceptions are reinforced by influential figures, including family members and community leaders, who may spread negative or inaccurate information about the vaccine. This has made it difficult for health authorities to gain the trust of the public and ensure that women and girls are protected from cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk strains of HPV, a virus that is spread through sexual contact. While most HPV infections resolve on their own, some high-risk strains can lead to abnormal changes in the cervix, which, if left untreated, may develop into cancer. The good news is that cervical cancer is both preventable and treatable, especially when detected early through regular screening and vaccination.
The HPV vaccine is most effective when administered to girls aged 9-15, before they become sexually active. This is why many countries, including Kenya, have prioritized vaccinating girls in this age group. While the vaccine is available for both boys and girls in some countries, Kenya has focused on girls, who are at higher risk of developing cervical cancer due to their anatomy and the fact that they are more likely to be affected by early sexual activity.
Despite the vaccine’s proven effectiveness in preventing cervical cancer, uptake in Kenya has been lower than desired. Since the vaccine program began in 2019, only 48% of eligible girls have been vaccinated, far short of the 80% target. The low vaccination rate is a result of persistent misconceptions, cultural barriers, and a lack of accessible information.
The risk factors for cervical cancer in Kenya include persistent HPV infection, early sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, smoking, long-term use of birth control pills, and limited access to regular screenings, particularly in rural areas. Women living with HIV are at a significantly higher risk, as they are more likely to develop cervical cancer due to their weakened immune systems.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends regular cervical cancer screenings for women over 30, with more frequent screenings for women living with HIV. The global strategy to reduce cervical cancer deaths includes both vaccination and screenings at ages 35 and 45, which can significantly reduce the incidence of the disease.
In Kenya, where cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, the government has made efforts to increase awareness about the HPV vaccine and the importance of regular screenings. However, despite these efforts, misconceptions continue to hinder the uptake of the vaccine. It is essential to address these myths and provide accurate, reliable information to the public, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare and information is limited.
The HPV vaccine is a critical tool in the fight against cervical cancer, and increasing its uptake could save thousands of lives each year. However, for this to happen, there needs to be a concerted effort to educate the public, dispel myths, and make the vaccine more accessible to all women, regardless of age or location. With the right information and support, more women can be protected from this preventable disease.
