The wife of Kebbi Governor, Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, has urged Nigerians to disregard the misinformation that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine could cause infertility.
Shinkafi-Bagudu, who is the Founder of MEDICAID Cancer Foundation, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria during the ‘Walk Away Cancer’ Campaign, in Abuja on Sunday.
She said that the vaccine is safe and effective, adding many countries in Africa, like Rwanda, have introduced it.
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According to her, early dictation of cancer is key to solving the problem in low and middle-income countries including Nigeria.
Shinkafi-Bagudu said most of the cases were usually brought in late at stage three and four, adding that, early screening, being aware and regular self-check usually goes a long way to help.
“The most common cancer in women is breast cancer, followed by Cervical Cancer. The government of Nigeria recently introduced vaccines that is protective against HPV.
“The vaccine is being given free to girls aged between nine and 14. The Foundation has been offering the vaccines. Even older women and men can take it.
“I want to urge people to take the HPV vaccine. It is available at Primary Health Centres. It is free, safe and effective against cervical cancer.
“I have two daughters and both of them have been vaccinated against cervical cancer. I am a grandmother because my daughter gave birth to a baby.
“If the vaccine will cause infertility as some people are misinforming others, she wouldn’t have given birth to a baby. I don’t need to lie. It is safe and very effective, ” she said.
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On the ‘Walk Away Cancer’ programme, she said it was a huge success, adding that, she has been doing this for over 14 years.
She said young and old people, cancer advocates, survivors, scientists and political leaders participated in the Walk Away Cancer 2023.
Shinkafi-Bagudu said that in high-income countries like the United States of America, they are giving cancer 95 per cent five-year survival rate, adding that we can do better.
“There are countries in Africa that are doing so well. We in Nigeria need to step up and take our position as the Giant of Africa”, she said.
