Description
Background: Cervical cancer accounts for 13.1% of all new female cancers globally. Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) 16 and 18 is the leading cause, accounting for over 70% of all cervical cancer cases. In 2019, Kenya introduced HPV vaccine for 10–14-year-old girls. However, the uptake of the vaccine especially among children residing in rural areas of Kitui county was suboptimal. Only (2,388 girls) 8.8% of the target had received second dose in 2021.
Methods: In 2022, CMMB sought to attend to the drivers of the low uptake of the HPV vaccine through engagement of different stakeholders. Negative narratives on vaccine safety were countered through monthly media talk shows and sensitization meetings. Access barriers contributed by long distances of travel to health facilities was addressed through logistics support for health care workers to reach girls in schools within their catchments. Through partnership with the Ministry of Education, teachers were engaged to sensitize parents and seek their consent for the girls to be vaccinated. Religious leaders, cancer survivors and Community Health Promoters created demand through debunking misconceptions and mobilization for vaccination.
Results: Data from KHIS showed improved vaccination uptake. As of February 2025, 15,115 girls had been vaccinated with HPV dose 1. The number of girls reached with dose 2 increased nine-fold from 2,388 in 2021 to 21,465 in 2025 reaching over 480 primary schools. Additionally, awareness creation efforts reached 1,027,029 people with messages on HPV vaccination.
Conclusion: This approach demonstrates how targeted interventions can reduce exposure to preventable cervical cancer risk factors and underscores the importance of integrating primary prevention strategies early in life to reduce the burden of NCDs. By addressing barriers to access and uptake of HPV vaccine, the program improved vaccine coverage and also fostered early prevention of cervical cancer.
Key Words: Human Papilloma Virus, HPV Vaccine, Cervical Cancer.
| Country | Kenya |
|---|---|
| Organization | Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) |
| Position | Program Coordinator |
| Received a Grant? | No |
