ANGOLA—The World Health Organization (WHO) has delivered over 1.4 million doses of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to Angola, aiming to immunize girls aged 9 to 12.
This is a key part of Angola’s national strategy to prevent cervical cancer, a disease that accounts for more than 90% of all cervical cancer cases in the country.
This initial batch of vaccines is part of a larger consignment, with another shipment expected to complete the total of 2.2 million doses needed to protect approximately 2,136,000 girls nationwide.
Dr. Silvia Lutucuta, Angola’s Minister of Health, stated that the campaign represents a crucial step in the government’s efforts to secure the future health of girls across the country and ensure that future generations are free from this preventable disease.
This vaccination effort aligns with the Global Strategy for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer by 2050.
By prioritizing the health of girls, Angola is not only preventing a deadly disease but also contributing to a healthier, more sustainable population.
Dr. Lutucuta also emphasized that this was a unique opportunity to protect future generations and called on all stakeholders to ensure that every eligible girl, no matter where she lives, receives the life-saving vaccine.
Recent data from the Angolan Cancer Control Institute revealed that in 2022 alone, 915 cases of cervical cancer were treated, accounting for 17% of all cancer cases in the country.
However, health authorities caution that the actual number may be higher due to limitations in diagnostic capabilities.
Adding to her sentiments, Dr Zabulon Yoti, WHO’s Acting Representative in Angola, highlighted the vaccine’s significance as a critical tool in building a healthier future for girls.
He praised the Angolan government’s commitment to ensuring that cervical cancer becomes a preventable condition, not a death sentence, by guaranteeing widespread vaccination.
“Now is the time to unite and support these initiatives,” Dr. Yoti urged, adding that efforts to vaccinate girls could drastically reduce the incidence of cervical cancer and pave the way for a healthier future for Angola’s population.
Cervical cancer remains a major public health challenge in Africa, affecting women at significantly higher rates compared to those in developed nations.
According to WHO, approximately 117,300 African women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually, with over 76,000 dying from the disease.
These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need to combat this preventable condition, which Angola has taken on by acquiring CECOLIN vaccines, produced by INOVAX Laboratories.
The vaccines, pre-qualified by WHO, are known for their high efficacy and safety, requiring only a single dose to provide lifelong protection.
Globally, over 50 million doses have been administered without any reported adverse reactions.
Antero Pina, UNICEF’s Representative in Angola, expressed optimism about the vaccine’s potential to transform the lives of adolescent girls.
He also pointed out that the HPV vaccination initiative opens doors to additional sexual and reproductive health interventions, further promoting the well-being of girls in Angola.
Beyond securing the vaccines, the Angolan government is working with partners to ensure the campaign’s success.
This includes efforts in planning and financing, training healthcare workers, managing logistics, advocacy, monitoring, and engaging communities.
The entire operation, which is expected to roll out in schools and communities, is budgeted at around US$20.9 million.
In addition, Dr. Denise António, UNDP Resident Representative in Angola, noted that this initiative is supported by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and reflects the government’s ongoing dedication to preventing cervical cancer.
She added that by vaccinating these girls, Angola is contributing to its National Development Plan 2023-2027 as well as the broader Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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