NATIONAL TASK FORCE ON CERVICAL CANCER ELIMINATION

Dear Members of the Nigerian Society for Colposcopy & Cervical Patholog, I hope this message finds you well. Today, I write to you with a renewed sense of urgency and purpose, inspired by the recent inauguration by the Honourable Minster of State for health, Dr. Tunji Alusa of the National Task Force on Cervical Cancer Elimination (NTF-CCE). The task force is chaired by Professor I.F. Adewole, former Honourable Minister for Health, and I am honoured to be a member. The NTF-CCE has been set an ambitious yet achievable goal by the Federal Government of Nigeria: to screen 50% of eligible women with a high-performance test, at least once in their lifetime and to treat 100% of precancerous lesions detected by 2027.

As members of the NSCCP, we have a pivotal role to play in this national initiative. Our collective efforts can make a significant impact in achieving the targets. Here are key areas where our active participation is needed:

1. Screening and Early Detection: Advocate for regular cervical cancer screenings. Encourage women to undergo HPV tests, and work with local healthcare providers to ensure these services are accessible and affordable.

2. Treatment and Care: Support initiatives that provide timely and effective treatment for women diagnosed with cervical precancer. Collaborate with healthcare facilities to improve the quality of care and patient outcomes.

3. Public Awareness and Education: Engage in public awareness campaigns to educate the community about cervical cancer prevention and the importance of early detection. Utilize social media, community events, and educational workshops to spread the message.

I urge each of us to take immediate action in our respective areas. Here are some steps we can take:

• Organize Community Outreach Programs: Host enlightenment sessions in schools, community centers, and workplaces.
• Collaborate with Local Health Authorities: Partner with local health departments to enhance screening efforts.
• Leverage Media Platforms: Use social media, local radio, and newspapers to disseminate information about cervical cancer prevention and the WHO’s elimination goals.
• Support Research and Innovation: Encourage and participate in research initiatives aimed at improving cervical cancer prevention, detection, and treatment.