Sunyani: Dr. Osei Kuffour Afreh, the Bono Regional Director of Health, has expressed concern about the increasing cases of cervical cancer in the region. He highlighted that the region recorded 93 cases in 2021, 41 cases in 2022, 16 cases in 2023, and 34 cases in 2024. Dr. Afreh urged women, particularly those aged 24 and above, to participate in regular breast screenings and examinations.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Afreh emphasized the importance of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination exercise in the region, describing it as the most reliable method to protect women and girls from cervical cancer. The region has received 83,000 doses of the HPV vaccine, and Dr. Afreh called on families and schools to support the vaccination campaign.
Dr. Afreh reassured the public about the safety of the HPV vaccine and encouraged families to ensure girls aged nine to 14 are vaccinated. He stated, "The HPV vaccine is 99 percent safe," and urged the public to maintain trust in the Ghana Health Service. He also advised reporting any adverse reactions to the service following vaccination.
