A fresh push is being made to protect young Papua New Guinean women from cervical cancer, with calls for HPV vaccination to be made widely available across the country.

The call comes from National Health Board Chairman, Chief Prof Dr Mathias Sapuri, following the 14th International Globeathon held in Port Moresby on September 27.

Dr Sapuri is urging the government, health workers, communities and families to support a nationwide Gardasil vaccination campaign targeting eligible girls and young women.

“Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in our country.”

“Gardasil, a proven vaccine against human papillomavirus, or HPV, has the potential to significantly reduce the incidence of cervical cancer and protect future generations of Papua New Guinean women from this preventable disease.”

The proposed rollout would target girls and young women aged between 9 and 26.

PNG has already had experience with HPV vaccination through local initiatives, including programs involving thousands of girls in the National Capital District, West New Britain and Morobe.

The call for a wider vaccination program comes as health advocates continue to raise awareness about cervical cancer and the importance of prevention and early action.

The message from the Globeathon is clear: preventing cervical cancer cannot depend only on treating patients after they become sick. Greater attention is needed on protecting girls and young women before the disease develops.