• Laoag is set to achieve a 90% HPV vaccination coverage rate.
• The city has vaccinated 2,413 schoolgirls against HPV this month.
• The program aims to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health threat.
• Laoag is expanding outreach to adult women for cancer screenings.
• HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer among Filipino women.

Laoag Aims for WHO HPV Vaccination Goals

Laoag City is on track to become the first in the Philippines to meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target of achieving 90 percent HPV vaccination coverage among girls aged nine to 14. This significant move is a crucial step towards eliminating cervical cancer. As of this month, the city’s health department has reported that 2,413 schoolgirls have received the HPV vaccine, which translates to an impressive vaccination rate of 90.58 percent. This figure is now awaiting validation from regional health officials.

Collaborative Efforts in Health Campaigns

The success of this initiative is key to supporting the WHO’s strategy to eradicate cervical cancer as a public health concern. The campaign is in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon and the Department of Health (DOH). Furthermore, the city has recently expanded its outreach efforts to cover adult women as well, providing essential breast cancer screenings to 1,157 women and cervical cancer screenings to 625. This holistic approach is rooted in the WHO’s 90-70-90 strategy, focusing on vaccination, screening, and treatment.

Community Initiatives to Facilitate Health Access

As Laoag continues its push for HPV vaccinations, it’s significant to note how local leadership paired with community action can further national health objectives. Notably, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, with the help of Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, has provided transportation assistance to families bringing eligible girls for vaccination. This initiative not only facilitates access but also breaks financial barriers that could prevent families from participating. Cervical cancer, driven primarily by HPV, is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Filipino women, making this increase in vaccination critical to combating the disease.

In conclusion, Laoag City is making remarkable strides towards achieving the WHO’s HPV vaccination target, with an admirable rate currently at 90.58%. This initiative is supported by a comprehensive health campaign, emphasizing the importance of education, collaboration, and the need for preventive measures in tackling cervical cancer. The collective effort of local leadership, health officials, and community support exemplifies a commitment to improve health outcomes for women and girls in the region.