Stakeholders in Ghana’s healthcare sector have made a resounding call for intensified public education and strengthened facility support to address the burden of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and its devastating link to cervical cancer.
The workshop, organized by Sansure Biotech in collaboration with HCOWA Association, and themed “Enhancing Healthcare: Strengthening HPV Awareness, Screening, and Prevention”, was held last Friday in Accra.
It brought together representatives from various organizations, including the Ghana Health Service, Ghana Pharmacy Council, Ministry of Health, Federation of Africa Medical Equipment, International Diabetes Federation of Africa, Health Community of West Africa Association, and Essence Medical Laboratory.
Discussions centered on the role of HPV in cervical cancer, screening challenges, and strategies for improving public education and healthcare systems.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common viral infection that primarily spreads through skin-to-skin contact, often during sexual activity. It is a leading cause of cervical cancer and can also result in other health complications, including genital warts and cancers of the throat, anus, and genitals.
While many HPV infections clear on their own, persistent infections can lead to serious health issues. Prevention through vaccination, regular screenings, and public awareness are critical in reducing HPV-related diseases and promoting overall health, especially among women.
Dr. Selina Leeward, a Palliative Medicine Specialist, emphasized that stigmatization and a lack of awareness are major barriers to the adoption of HPV screening.
She underscored the critical need for government agencies and media partners to increase their commitment to educating the public about HPV and its prevention.
Dr. Leeward also highlighted the significant burden of HPV-related cancers in Ghana, stressing that early detection and intervention could save countless lives.
Anthony Ameka, CEO of the Federation of Africa Medical Equipment, urged for more attention to be given to January as HPV Awareness Month, comparing it to the well-known Breast Cancer Awareness campaigns in October.
He encouraged individuals to seek early treatment, noting that HPV, which can be transmitted through sexual contact, is preventable with safe practices such as vaccination, routine screenings, and education on safe sexual behaviors.
Dr. Joshua Billy of the Ghana Health Service stressed the need for healthcare facilities across the country to be equipped with modern diagnostic tools to support comprehensive screening programs. He argued that effective screening is a critical step toward reducing late-stage cervical cancer cases and saving lives.
Elizabeth Denyo of the International Diabetes Federation of Africa highlighted the importance of regulating medications in pharmacies, noting that some HPV-related complications require specialized diagnosis and treatment that can only be provided by adequately equipped hospitals. She warned against self-medication, stressing that proper testing and professional oversight are essential for effective management.
The workshop also shed light on the severe complications of cervical cancer, particularly during childbirth, where affected women often require cesarean sections. Stakeholders emphasized the need to address these challenges through improved screening initiatives, patient education, and accessible treatment options.
Anna Jiang, CEO of the HCOWA Association, reaffirmed the Association’s unwavering commitment to supporting efforts in the fight against HPV. She emphasized their dedication to collaborating with stakeholders and championing initiatives aimed at prevention, education, and improving access to screening and treatment.
The event concluded with a commitment to collaboration among key stakeholders, including Sansure Biotech and Essence Medical Laboratory, to bolster the fight against HPV. Participants also announced the launch of a free HPV testing campaign, offering a lifeline to individuals and communities in need of early detection services.
The organizers of the workshop highlighted its significance as a pivotal step toward empowering healthcare professionals with the necessary tools and expertise to improve HPV screening and prevention.
Stakeholders committed to advancing advocacy efforts, fostering innovative solutions, and building strong partnerships to address the HPV burden and mitigate its impact on women’s health in Ghana and across the region.
