HPV Vaccines for Young Girls in Haiti

MISSION

The Haitian Global Health Alliance is working in concert with GHESKIO in Haiti(www.gheskio.org) to stop the spread of human papillomavirus (HPV) among adolescent girls in Haiti by providing vaccines to at-risk communities. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that often results in cervical cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths for women in Haiti. Haiti has the highest rate of cervical cancer in the world (50 times higher than the US), and providing these HPV vaccines is saving the lives of Haitian women.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Haiti has the highest reported incidence of cervical cancer of any country in the world - with an estimated 1,500 deaths annually, cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in Haitian women (six times that of the US). With only four trained pathologists, just one MRI scanner, and a lack of health care infrastructure in a country of 11 million people, most

women have never been screened for cervical cancer.

HOW WILL THIS PROJECT SOLVE THE PROBLEM?

Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by HPV. The HPV vaccine provides long-lasting and highly effective (almost 100%) protection from 9 types of HPV if received at correct intervals. Our organization has a proven track record of success; in a prior study, 94.5% of girls received the necessary follow-up doses of the vaccine, which is imperative for efficacy. This program will provide adolescent girls with these life-saving vaccines, help stop the spread of HPV and protect young women against cervical cancer.

POTENTIAL LONG-TERM IMPACT

Adolescent girls in Haiti are at the highest risk for severe poverty, poor family support structures, and low access to education and health services. This vaccine is not only saving lives, but it is making it possible for these adolescents to attend school, spend time with their families, and contribute to a healthier, safer Haiti.