Foundation Warns Multiple Sexual Partners Increase Cervical Cancer Risk, Urges Early HPV Vaccination

The Access to Basic Medical Care Foundation has cautioned that having multiple sexual partners greatly increases the risk of developing cervical cancer, as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV)—which accounts for over 95 per cent of cervical cancer cases—is predominantly transmitted through sexual contact.

The organisation issued the warning on Monday during an awareness programme for secondary school students in Ibadan, held to commemorate the 2024 World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day.

Speaking at the event, the Foundation’s Medical Officer, Dr. Anjola Oluwadamilola, explained that since at least 80 per cent of women will be exposed to HPV at some point in their lives, it is crucial for young girls to receive the HPV vaccine before becoming sexually active to reduce their risk of infection later in life.

She noted that HPV spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact—including vaginal intercourse or any genital contact—and emphasised that having multiple sexual partners significantly increases the likelihood of cervical cancer, with HPV serotypes 16 and 18 being the primary causes. She added that while the vaccine offers maximum protection before sexual exposure, it still provides benefits to those already sexually active.

Dr. Anjola further highlighted that early marriage, early sexual activity, early pregnancy, and closely spaced pregnancies also heighten vulnerability to cervical cancer. Other risk factors include smoking, limited access to screening, and weakened immunity. She reiterated the importance of administering the HPV vaccine to girls aged nine to 14 and encouraged older adolescents and young women aged 15 to 26 to take advantage of available catch-up vaccination.