Cervical cancer remains a significant public health challenge in South Africa, yet it is preventable.
It ranks as the second most common cancer among women overall and the most frequent among those aged 15 to 44. Unfortunately, many parents refuse to have their daughters vaccinated.
Each year, 11 000 women are diagnosed and 5 800 lost.
The cause? HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) – a virus so common and silent that most people don’t even know they have it
Here’s the good news: The HPV vaccine prevents nearly 95% of cervical cancer cases.
• It is safe
• Non-infectious
• Used in 130+ countries worldwide. Why vaccinate young girls? The vaccine works best before exposure to HPV – that is why Grade 5 girls (9+ years) are vaccinated free of charge through schools by the Department of Health
• Health workers visit schools
• Parental consent is required (girls 12+ may consent themselves)
• HPV has no svmptoms but can lead to cervical cancer later in life. Without early detection. it can be fatal
• This vaccine can eliminate cervical cancer in our lifetime. Protect vour daughters, protect the next generation.
For more information, contact the HPV Helpline 080 001-2322 or contact Eileen van Wyk on eileen.vanwyk@westerncape.gov.za.
