Guard Against HPV Introduces Niña Corpuz as the New Campaign Ambassador

In the Philippines, the Human Papilloma Virus is the primary cause of cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer is the second leading cancer among Filipino women, with thousands of new cases and deaths occurring yearly. Although some of the infections from this commonly occurring virus with more than 100 types usually go away on their own, at least 14 types of it have been found to be cancer-causing.

Apart from cervical cancer, other its related cancers and diseases also include vaginal and vulvar cancers, penile cancer, anal cancer, oropharyngeal cancer, and genital warts.

Guard against HPV

As the digital era that brings advancements in health care, it also ensures a steady stream of distractions that compete for the attention of mothers and teens.

MSD in the Philippines together with its advocates came up with Guard Against HPV, which calls for the urgent need to increase awareness and understanding of HPV diseases and their burdens on the unprotected population. Aligned with the “Inventing for Life” ethos of MSD, Guard against HPV encapsulates the vision and the organization’s efforts to continuously invent and innovate to address some of the world’s most life-threatening diseases like those with HPV-related cancers and diseases.

Through the campaign, dialogues among medical professionals, patient groups, along with the media to generate more awareness and discussion on HPV.

Also, call for change in perspective on such kinds of diseases so that we may overcome them more effectively and efficiently.

During the advocacy launch on August 28, 2019, at the Seda Vertis North in Quezon City, Niña Corpuz was presented as the new campaign ambassador for Guard Against HPV. Niña is a broadcast journalist, an author, an entrepreneur, a mom with 3 wonderful kids and a health advocate.

She co-moderated the media discussions with Dr. Erwin De Mesa, the President of the Philippines Infectious Diseases Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (PIDSOG). The discussions centered on debunking the myths and misconceptions surrounding the virus. Such as “Is it too early for teenagers to get an HPV vaccine? and “Only those who get sexual intercourse can get HPV” received clarification from the specialists. Topics also include conceptualizing the risk factors associated with HPV. And how HPV is linked to cancer, genital warts, and other HPV-related health problems.

HPV vaccination works best when given before a person becomes exposed to the virus.

To highlight the importance of immunization and regular check-ups as key factors to disease prevention. Representative mother (Karina Ramos of Digital Filipina) and youth officers from Lingkod ER reiterated the value of early protection. Such as vaccination in addition to exchanging valuable insights on adolescence as the ideal time to talk about personal health.

The campaign also aims to empower mothers to be one of the primary advocates for their children’s health. It also seeks to engage youth as well in the conversation about protecting their health now. To enjoy a future free from HPV diseases and cancers.

The ABCDE of STI/HPV Prevention

A for Abstinence

B for Be faithful

C for CCC use

D for Don’t do drugs

E for Educate

Check out the video to learn more about HPV.

www.GuardAgainstHPV.com (website to be updated)

Facebook: Guard Against HPV              Instagram: @guardagainsthpv