Experts advocate improved HPV vaccination awareness

Health experts have called for increased awareness of the Human Papillomavirus, warning that the virus remains one of the most common sexually transmitted infections globally, yet is poorly understood by many Nigerians.

Speaking on the issue, the Chief Executive Officer of Inocul8, Dr Emmanuel Egbroko, described HPV as a group of over 150 related viruses, about 40 of which affect the genital area. According to him, while some types are harmless, others can lead to genital warts and various forms of cancer.

“HPV infects the skin and soft tissues, making it easy to spread through close contact,” he said.

Also speaking, the Chief Medical Director of Inocul8, Dr Paul Ogboji, explained that genital warts are among the most visible signs of infection. He noted that they often appear as small, flesh-coloured bumps or cauliflower-like growths around the genital or anal region.

“Most genital warts are caused by low-risk HPV types 6 and 11, which are highly contagious,” Ogboji stated.

The experts noted that HPV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex, as well as skin-to-skin contact in the genital area.

They warned that individuals can transmit the virus even when they show no symptoms.

“A person does not need to have visible signs before passing HPV to a partner,” Egbroko added.

Ogboji further explained that one of the major challenges in controlling HPV is its “silent” nature, as many infected individuals remain unaware of their status. Symptoms, when they occur, may include itching, discomfort, small growths, or bleeding during intercourse. He added that genital warts may take weeks or months to develop after the initial infection, making early detection difficult.

The experts identified multiple sexual partners, unprotected sex, and weakened immunity as key risk factors, noting that adults between the ages of 20 and 40 are most affected. Beyond physical symptoms, they emphasised the psychological impact, stating that affected individuals often experience embarrassment, anxiety, and relationship strain. They also warned that genital warts can recur after treatment, as the virus may persist in the body.

On the subject of treatment, Ogboji explained that while genital warts can be removed using topical creams, cryotherapy, or minor surgical procedures, such interventions do not eliminate the virus completely. He stressed the importance of prevention, urging Nigerians to take advantage of HPV vaccination, which protects against the most common strains responsible for both warts and cancer.

“Vaccination, safer sexual practices, including consistent condom use, and limiting the number of sexual partners remain the key preventive measures,” he said.

The experts also called for regular medical check-ups, particularly cervical screening for women, noting that early detection can significantly reduce the risk of complications. They decried the low level of awareness about HPV in Nigeria, attributing it to stigma and a lack of information, which often delays timely medical intervention.

Egbroko urged Nigerians to prioritise their health by seeking accurate information and professional care. “HPV may be common, but it is preventable and manageable with the right knowledge and action,” he concluded.