🚺 Cervical cancer is the 2nd most common cancer among women in Nigeria, yet it is preventable and curable if detected early. It is caused by persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus most sexually active people will encounter, often without symptoms. ⚠️ In many cases, the immune system clears HPV naturally, but when high-risk strains persist, they can cause abnormal cell changes that may develop into cancer over 15–20 years. In Nigeria, factors that increase the risk of cervical cancer progression include: ➡️ The type of HPV strain ➡️ Immune status ➡️ Presence of other sexually transmitted infections ➡️ Number of births ➡️ Early pregnancy ➡️ Hormonal contraceptive use ➡️ Smoking The good news? Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable if caught early. Here’s how you can protect yourself: ✅ Get vaccinated against HPV between ages 9–14 ✅ Go for regular screening starting at age 30 ✅ Seek early treatment—cervical cancer is curable when detected in time Prevention is key! Let’s ensure more women in Nigeria have access to HPV vaccination, screening, and treatment. #worldcancerday #unitedbyunique #cervicalcancerawareness #hpvvaccine