Cervical cancer continues to claim thousands of lives in Kenya every year, with health experts raising concern over low uptake of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, despite its proven effectiveness in preventing the disease.

A new report by the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) shows that cervical cancer, caused by HPV, leads to the death of about 3,400 people annually.

The virus, which is transmitted through contact including sexual activity, has over 200 strains, some causing genital warts while others are responsible for various cancers.

Despite the launch of the HPV vaccine in 2019, the report reveals that uptake has remained worryingly low.

Only 33 per cent of eligible girls received the first dose in 2020, and even fewer, just 31 per cent, completed the two-dose schedule in 2021.

“Cervical cancer, caused by HPV, claims 3,400 lives annually in Kenya. Despite the HPV vaccine rollout in 2019, uptake remains low, with only 33% receiving the 1st dose in 2020, and 31% completing both doses in 2021. Let’s act, combat hesitancy & ensure every girl is protected!” reads a statement from NSDCC.

The HPV vaccine is primarily given to pre-teens and teenagers, as it is most effective before exposure to the virus.

However, concerns around safety, stigma, and widespread misinformation have contributed to hesitancy, keeping coverage levels low.

According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN), Kenya reports about 5,845 new cervical cancer cases each year, with more than 3,000 deaths.

GLOBOCAN's 2022 data lists cervical cancer as the second most common cancer among Kenyan women, following breast cancer, with an incidence of approximately 40 cases per 10,000 women annually.

Women aged between 45 and 59 account for 43 per cent of all cervical cancer cases, while those aged 30 to 44 represent 35 per cent. Only 2 per cent of reported cases are among women aged 15 to 29.

Health authorities are now urging girls and their families to complete the vaccination cycle. There is also a push to adopt a single-dose schedule, which could ease the vaccination process and boost coverage.

Experts insist that improving vaccine uptake is critical in reducing the burden of cervical cancer. They are calling for community education, public awareness campaigns, and targeted outreach to combat fears and misinformation.