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Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu: Grateful to share insights on cervical cancer elimination at IGCC

Photo from Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu/LinkedIn

Aug 16, 2024, 07:53

Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu: Grateful to share insights on cervical cancer elimination at IGCC

Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu shared on LinkedIn:

“The IGCC – Institute of Cancer Governance and Control had a conference in Brazil last month. Although I couldn’t make it there in person, I was able to give the audience some insight into my work in Nigeria, thanks to technology. Though I am not a Portuguese speaker, we are able to transcend language barriers with our common goal and determination.

I spoke on cervical cancer elimination and noted the similarities between Brazil and Nigeria’s cancer landscapes. Brazil sees 177,000 cases diagnosed annually while Nigeria reports 12,000; 8,000 of which result in death. I was pleased to share that 12 million girls have already been vaccinated against HPV in Nigeria, which is a great feat for the country.

Reflecting on the 1st Cervical Cancer Elimination Forum in Cartagena, and its success in mobilizing and renewing commitments. This resulted in a pledge of $600 million for cervical cancer elimination. I reiterated the need for a balanced focus on vaccinations and screenings, pointing out that many screenings are paid out of pocket and not fully integrated into national cancer control policies.

I also addressed additional barriers, such as cultural misconceptions and misinformation about the HPV vaccine, urging for continued financial collaboration.

I congratulate IGCC on the successful conference. My invitation and submission shows that we must not let language become a barrier. Cancer is one and so must we remain United Against Cancer. ”

Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu

Source: Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu/LinkedIn

Her Excellency Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu is a global cancer advocate, a pediatrician, a UICC Board Member, Founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation (MCF), and the Chairperson of First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC). Dr Bagudu is working with the state ministries of health, education, and women affairs to implement programs to sustainably improve menstrual hygiene, girl-child education, economic empowerment of women, and put an end to gender-based violence. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu is a member of the Editorial Board of OncoDaily.