HPV and Cervical Cancer Prevention for West Africa

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a direct cause of cervical cancer, which is the most prevalent and fatal cancer among women in Mali. However, the two HPV strains 16 and 18 (which cause 70% of cervical cancer cases) can be eliminated with access to the HPV vaccine that has long been approved in 125 countries. 

Unfortunately, many countries such as Mali do not have access to this vaccine that helps to prevent cervical cancer, and few Malian women know the importance of receiving a simple cervical exam once a year to prevent the spread of cancer and lack the opportunity. 

Our HPV and Cervical Cancer program actively advocates for the availability of the HPV vaccine in Mali. As well, we provide free cervical cancer screenings to women at the ASACOMSI clinic. Through educating communities on the importance of the HPV vaccine, GAIA Vaccine Foundation will also work to raise cervical cancer screening rates in Malian villages, as well as reduce the stigma around HPV.

None of our ongoing programs would be possible without your continuous support. For a donation of $15, you would be providing treatment for one woman with precancerous lesions. With a donation of $25, you would be providing supplies for cervical cancer screenings for five women. For a donation of $50, you would be covering the cost of HPV vaccine doses for ten adolescents. We thank you for your generous contributions to our mission of reducing the incidence of infectious disease in underserved communities.