Football tournament in Zimbabwe spreads awareness of cervical cancer
## Health Awareness and HPV Vaccination Campaign at the CAF Under-17 Girls’ Tournament
Health Awareness and HPV Vaccination Campaign at the CAF Under-17 Girls’ Tournament
In December, approximately 200 teenage girls from six countries participated in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Under-17 girls’ tournament held in Zimbabwe. The event emphasized raising awareness about cervical cancer and promoting the uptake of the HPV vaccine.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer, which is sexually transmitted. The HPV vaccine can prevent up to 90% of cervical cancer cases. Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women, with Africa accounting for nearly a quarter of global deaths. According to the global vaccine alliance, Gavi, 19 out of the 20 most affected countries are in sub-Saharan Africa.
The tournament was part of the Goal Getters campaign, a joint initiative launched by Gavi, CAF, and UEFA. This campaign aims to merge the interests of teenage girls in sports and health. The tournament served as a platform to provide a safe and empowering space for participants.
In December, approximately 200 teenage girls from six countries participated in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Under-17 girls’ tournament held in Zimbabwe.
The HPV vaccine is offered for free to girls aged 9 to 14, potentially saving families significant treatment costs in the future. Despite challenges from misinformation and stigma, Africa has intensified HPV vaccination efforts. The World Health Organization reported that coverage for at least one dose of the vaccine rose to 40% in 2023, compared to 28% the previous year.
Public health education remains crucial in overcoming misconceptions about the HPV vaccine. In Zimbabwe, a single-dose HPV vaccine was introduced to increase uptake, replacing the previous two-dose regime established in 2018.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
