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As the government prepares to vaccinate over 2.2 million young girls against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), concerns are growing over the rising infection rates among both men and women.

The virus, known to cause cervical cancer and other serious conditions, is highly contagious and often goes undetected for years.

HPV is primarily transmitted through oral, vaginal and anal sex, as well as deep kissing. It is the leading cause of cervical cancer in women and has also been linked to anal, penile, vaginal, vulvar and throat cancers particularly through oral sex.

Ruth Katamansu, a women’s health nurse specialist at the Shai-Osudoku District Hospital in the Greater Accra Region, is at the forefront of the campaign to educate and vaccinate communities.

“HPV can go undetected for years,” she said, “and when symptoms do appear, especially in women, they may show up as small, skin-coloured warts or bumps around the vagina, often with a foul-smelling discharge.”

For men, the risks can be just as severe, sometimes resulting in significant genital damage, including rotting tissue in extreme cases.

Health experts are urging the public to adopt safe sex practices, including consistent condom use and limiting the number of sexual partners. Regular screenings, such as pap smears and HPV tests, are also strongly recommended.

Above all, doctors emphasise the power of prevention. “The HPV vaccine can prevent up to 90% of HPV-related cancers. It’s most effective when given to preteens, but it still offers protection for adults up to age 45.”