#StopHPVForHer: Dr. Aisha Mustapha Reveals Essential Tips to Protect Yourself from Cervical Cancer

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is often overlooked in conversations, yet it is the root cause of one of the most preventable cancers globally-cervical cancer. This October, BellaNaija launched the #StopHPVForHer initiative to raise awareness and encourage women to take proactive steps such as vaccination and regular screening to safeguard their health before cervical cancer develops.

Many women remain uncertain about HPV and its connection to cervical cancer. Questions like “What is HPV exactly?” and “How can I protect myself and my loved ones?” are common. To clarify these concerns, Dr. Aisha Mustapha, a distinguished gynecologic oncologist at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital and President of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (Kaduna State Branch), shared her expertise with BellaNaija. She also serves as Co-Chair of the Nigerian Cancer Society’s Training Committee and offers valuable insights into HPV, its role in cervical cancer, and the importance of vaccination and screening.

Why is cervical cancer considered one of the most preventable cancers?

Cervical cancer’s preventability hinges on two main factors: the clear identification of its cause-persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains-and the lengthy interval between infection and cancer development. This window allows for effective prevention through two strategies:

• Primary Prevention: The HPV vaccine is the frontline defense against cervical cancer. Administered ideally to preteens before they become sexually active, it prevents the initial infection with high-risk HPV types, effectively halting the disease before it starts. In Nigeria, girls aged 9 receive this vaccine free of charge at Primary Health Centres nationwide.
• Secondary Prevention: Screening and early intervention are crucial because cervical cancer can take 10 to 20 years to develop after HPV infection. Tests like Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA), Pap smears, and HPV DNA testing detect precancerous changes early. These abnormalities can be treated with simple procedures, preventing progression to cancer. Nigeria has recently introduced national guidelines to standardize screening efforts.

By combining vaccination to block the cause and screening to catch early warning signs, cervical cancer becomes highly preventable.

What symptoms related to cervical health should women be vigilant about?

It’s important to understand that precancerous cervical changes usually do not produce symptoms, which is why regular screening is essential-even if you feel healthy. The best “warning sign” is to keep up with your scheduled cervical screening appointments.

When cervical cancer begins to develop, symptoms often involve abnormal bleeding or discharge. Women should seek medical advice immediately if they notice:

• Unexpected vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding after intercourse, bleeding between periods, or any bleeding after menopause.
• Menstrual periods that suddenly become heavier or last longer than usual.
• Unusual vaginal discharge that is watery, foul-smelling, or tinged with blood.
• Pelvic discomfort or pain during sex, especially if these symptoms are new or persistent.

Any of these signs warrant prompt consultation with a healthcare provider rather than assuming they are minor infections.

How reliable are Pap smears and HPV tests in identifying early cervical changes?

Both Pap smears and HPV tests are highly effective tools in detecting early cervical abnormalities and form the backbone of secondary prevention:

• Pap smear: Examines cervical cells to identify abnormal or precancerous changes.
• HPV test: Detects the presence of high-risk HPV strains that can lead to cervical cancer, helping to identify women at higher risk who need closer follow-up.

Some programs combine both tests (co-testing) or use HPV testing as the initial screen. When precancerous lesions are detected and treated early, over 95% of cervical cancers can be prevented. A negative HPV test also provides reassurance, indicating a very low risk of developing cervical cancer in the next five years.

Given the stigma and fear surrounding gynecological exams, how can cervical screening be normalized in Nigeria?

Overcoming fear, stigma, and limited access to screening in regions like northern Nigeria requires a comprehensive strategy:

• Community Education: Widespread awareness campaigns using local languages and trusted community figures can dispel myths and emphasize that “Screening saves lives.” Open discussions about reproductive health must become routine.
• Self-Sampling Technology: HPV self-sampling kits empower women to collect samples privately, reducing anxiety and increasing screening uptake. These samples are as accurate as those collected by healthcare providers.
• “See and Treat” Approach: Nigeria’s adoption of Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) followed by immediate treatment with thermocoagulation allows women to be screened and treated in a single visit, minimizing discomfort and reducing the need for multiple hospital trips.
• Healthcare Worker Training: Equipping providers with skills to conduct exams with empathy and professionalism helps build trust and eases patient concerns.

What treatment options exist for cervical cancer, and how does early diagnosis influence outcomes?

Treatment varies depending on the cancer stage, underscoring the importance of early detection:

• Micro-invasive cancer: Minor procedures like cone biopsy or Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) are often sufficient.
• Early invasive cancer: Surgery such as radical hysterectomy or trachelectomy is common. Radiation and chemotherapy may also be used, especially for larger tumors or those invading nearby tissues.
• Advanced cancer: Combined chemoradiotherapy and brachytherapy are standard treatments.
• Recurrent or very advanced cases: Emerging therapies like targeted treatments and immunotherapy show promise but are not yet widely accessible in Nigeria.

Detecting cervical cancer early dramatically improves survival rates and often allows for less invasive treatments that preserve fertility, making regular screening a critical, life-saving practice.