The U.S. Embassy in Eswatini extended its heartfelt congratulations to the Eswatini Government for successfully initiating the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccination campaign on June 12th. The campaign aims to combat the prevalence of HPV-related diseases, with a particular focus on cervical cancer, which remains a significant health concern for women worldwide.
The launch event, held at Lobamba, witnessed Chargé d’Affaires Caitlin Piper commending the crucial role of the vaccine in preventing HPV infections, particularly those associated with various types of cancer. Cervical cancer, in particular, ranks as the fourth most frequently occurring cancer among women globally. Shockingly, it is the leading cancer affecting women of reproductive age and the primary cause of death for women aged 15 to 44 in Eswatini.
“PEPFAR through its implementing partners is supporting the HPV vaccine campaign that is being launched today,” announced Chargé d’Affaires Caitlin Piper. “We are proud to introduce this life-saving tool to young women in Eswatini, offering them an opportunity to reduce their vulnerability to this dreadful disease.” While emphasizing the significance of vaccination, Piper underscored that it should not be considered a substitute for regular screening. She encouraged women to continue with cervical cancer screenings, even if they were fortunate enough to receive the vaccine.
As part of the campaign, Chargé Piper made a heartfelt appeal to parents, urging them to encourage and ensure that girls aged between 9 and 14 years receive the vaccine.
 Vaccination campaign on June 12th.){kind=link}