Women urged to go for Human Papillomavirus screening tests
Published on: Saturday, June 22, 2024
Jannie and some of the volunteers.
PENAMPANG: Some 215 individuals participated in HPV screening tests conducted in five areas – Penampang, Inanam, Keningau, Tenom and Tulid.
This complimentary HPV PCR screening initiative, which ran over three days from May 10 to 12, was organised by the Rose Foundation in collaboration with Sabah DAP Women.
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HPV, which stands for Human Papillomavirus, is a type of DNA virus typically transmitted through intimate and skin-to-skin contact in the genital area.
Infection with low-risk HPV subtypes can cause warts such as genital warts, while high-risk subtypes are linked to various cancers, including cervical, anal, penile and throat cancers.
“Through the HPV PCR screening programme, I noticed that many women are still apprehensive about undergoing the screening. For me, this is an opportunity to assess our health so that early treatment can be sought if a positive result is detected,” said Kapayan Assemblywoman Jannie Lasimbang.
“The results of the recent HPV PCR screening showed that 6.9 per cent tested positive, while 87.9 per cent tested negative.
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“These findings underscore the prevalence of HPV and the significance of early prevention measures.
“I want to stress to all women that HPV PCR screening is safe, painless and straightforward, as we can collect the sample ourselves and receive results within three weeks of the screening.”
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She added that the upcoming programme will focus on HPV vaccination, with her office collaborating with the National Cancer Society Malaysia to vaccinate women aged 9 to 45 in Penampang, aiming to vaccinate 500 individuals.
“Therefore, I encourage colleges or private schools that meet the criteria to contact us for more information on this programme,” she said.
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