The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has urged parents to allow their teenage daughters to receive vaccines that prevent cervical cancer. Pharmacist Adebayo Gbadamosi, ACPN chairman in Oyo State, emphasized that this measure is crucial for preventing the disease among women later in life.
Gbadamosi made the statement during the launch of a pharmacy‑based immunisation delivery programme organized by the Oyo State Primary Healthcare Board in collaboration with the ACPN and Population Services International Nigeria. The event, aimed at expanding immunisation reach in the state, was attended by key healthcare stakeholders, including Dr Muideen Olatunji, Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Primary Healthcare Board, and Dr Adebayo Adebisi, Nigeria Country Manager of the programme.
He noted that many women develop cervical cancer during their reproductive years and that vaccination can prevent this. Gbadamosi recommended that teenagers, particularly girls, receive the vaccine from age 13 to guard against cervical cancer and other chronic diseases in the future. He stressed that vaccination is a safe and effective way to reduce mortality and prolong life, and highlighted the importance of preventive healthcare: equipping children with vaccines before they become sexually active can significantly lower the incidence of cervical cancer among women.
The pharmacy‑based immunisation delivery programme aims to bring immunisation services closer to the people by involving pharmacists across Oyo State. This initiative is expected to increase access to vaccines, especially the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which is essential for preventing cervical cancer. The Oyo State Primary Healthcare Board’s effort forms part of a broader strategy to improve healthcare outcomes in the state. By expanding immunisation services and increasing vaccine access, the programme seeks to reduce the burden of cervical cancer and other preventable diseases. As it rolls out, it is anticipated to have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of women and girls in Oyo State and potentially serve as a model for other regions.
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