WHO ranks cervical cancer the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. The WHO reported 604,000 new cervical cancer cases in 2020, with 342,000 women dying from the disease.

HPV causes reproductive system infections and cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine may prevent 90% of HPV-related malignancies and precancerous lesions.

But HPV vaccination is scarce in many countries despite its life-saving potential. Vaccines are limited and expensive in low-income nations. Misinformation about the vaccine prevents people from getting it. Low vaccine awareness, poor health infrastructure, and the requirement of several doses can limit vaccine access.

Internews will be hosting a webinar titled “A shot of truth: an undertold story of hope against cervical cancer” as an event at the Sabin Vaccine Institute’s Vaccination Acceptance Research Network (VARN) second annual conference in Bangkok co-convened with UNICEF and co-sponsored by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

This webinar will help journalists explore in-depth HPV vaccination and cervical cancer reporting. Gaps in public dialogue will be identified and addressed. Internews will announce media fellowships. Journalists covering HPV vaccination and cervical cancer elimination in South Asia will receive these fellowships.