Hanoi (VNA) - Vietnam is intensifying efforts to combat HPV-related diseases with the nationwide communication campaign "For a Vietnam free from the burden of HPV".

This initiative aims to raise public awareness about Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and its associated health risks, particularly cervical cancer, while promoting vaccination and early screening as key preventive measures. At the campaign launch in Hanoi on March 29, Deputy Minister of Health Do Xuan Tuyen emphasised the urgent need for increased public education and proactive healthcare habits to prevent HPV-related diseases and cancers. He reaffirmed the Government's commitment to integrating the HPV vaccine into Vietnam’s National Expanded Immunisation Programme by 2026, in line with the Government’s Resolution No. 104/NQ-CP, dated August 15, 2022. Despite global and national efforts to control cancer, challenges remain in public awareness and early detection. Deputy Minister Tuyen stressed the importance of continuous communication efforts, urging people to undergo regular screenings to detect precancerous conditions early.

Although cervical cancer is a serious disease, it is one of the few cancers that can be completely prevented through HPV vaccination and early detection of precancerous lesions. Effective treatments for precancerous conditions are widely available, low-cost, and simple to administer, the Deputy Minister noted. US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc E. Knapper praised Vietnam’s private healthcare establishments for their role in raising community awareness and emphasised that HPV-related diseases are preventable with timely interventions. Strong partnerships between government agencies, healthcare providers, and international organisations can drive impactful and lasting public health improvements, the ambassador added.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a common virus that can cause dangerous conditions, including cervical cancer, anal cancer, and other diseases such as genital warts in both men and women. According to Globocan 2022 statistics, Vietnam records approximately 6,200 HPV-related cancer cases annually, with over 2,500 cervical cancer deaths among women. Without effective intervention, projections suggest that by 2070, HPV-related cervical cancer deaths in Vietnam could reach 200,000. The campaign aims to raise public awareness about HPV transmission, prevention, and the importance of regular screenings. It also seeks to promote proactive healthcare habits and encourage parents of adolescents to vaccinate their children against HPV.

During the launch, the Central Health Communication and Education Centre under the Ministry of Health signed an agreement with MSD Vietnam to expand the campaign nationwide. This initiative will involve health education programmes across multiple localities, working closely with medical institutions and relevant authorities to deliver consistent and effective health messaging. As part of the campaign, an AI-powered exhibition on HPV prevention was also introduced, showcasing an innovative approach to public health education. Following the launch, the campaign will continue with community activities and exhibitions in Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and rural areas./.