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Dr. Goldie Collinwood-Williams, Resident Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Ridge, has urged teenage girls to take their reproductive health seriously to prevent cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is a disease that remains one of the leading causes of death among women. She made this call, while addressing students at OLA Senior High School in Ho on Friday, during a Health Talk Programme organised as part of the 71st Speech and Prize-Giving Day Anniversary and the Silver Jubilee Celebration of the 1999 and 2000 Year Groups of the school.
Dr. Collinwood-Williams emphasised that cervical cancer is highly deadly, with a high fatality rate once diagnosed at an advanced stage. She noted that many women in Ghana and Africa are hesitant to openly discuss reproductive health issues, which often results in late detection and limited treatment options.
The gynecologist highlighted the importance of early prevention, stating that young girls must be vaccinated against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and educated on the risks of early sexual activity, which increases the chances of contracting HPV infections that can lead to cervical cancer. “Many people, especially teenagers, are unaware of the dangers of cervical cancer. Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to health. If young girls are vaccinated early and advised to delay sexual activity, their chances of contracting HPV and developing cervical cancer reduce significantly,” she stated.
Dr. Collinwood-Williams also cited World Health Organization (WHO) studies, which indicate that early exposure to HPV prolongs the risk of developing cervical cancer, making prevention crucial. “Cervical cancer is preventable through vaccination and early detection. If we can detect it early, we can treat and prevent it from spreading. But if it is ignored, the consequences can be severe,” she warned.
The health expert stressed that both boys and girls must be involved in reproductive health discussions since HPV is not exclusive to females – males can also be carriers and transmitters of the virus. “We should not only educate girls about their reproductive health and leave out the boys. They also play a role in HPV transmission. Vaccinating and educating both genders will significantly reduce cervical cancer-related deaths,” she explained.
As part of the health talk, Dr. Dela Mawutor, a member of the Past OLA Girls Association (POGA), educated students on personal hygiene and menstrual health management, emphasising the need for proper hygiene practices to prevent infections and other health complications. Meanwhile, Dr. Edem Sabbah, President of POGA Global, encouraged students to build relationships with past students, as they can serve as mentors and guides in their academic and career journeys.
“As we return to give back to the school, we encourage you to make connections, seek guidance, and learn from those who have walked the path before you. A mentor can make a huge difference in shaping your future,” she advised. The event formed part of efforts to empower young girls with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, ensuring a healthier future free from cervical cancer and other preventable diseases.
Other activities as prelude to the Speech Day and Silver Jubilee Celebration of the 1999 and 2000 Year Groups include donations to the Ho Female Prison and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the Ho Teaching Hospital.
Source: GNA
