LASU Hosts HPV Awareness Walk, Offers Free Cervical Cancer Screening

Lagos State University has intensified its public health advocacy with a large-scale awareness campaign on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer, culminating in a free screening exercise for women on campus.

The initiative, organised by the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World in collaboration with the Cancer and Drug Discovery Research Group, Department of Biochemistry, drew hundreds of participants, including researchers, staff, and students.

The awareness walk, which lasted nearly two hours, commenced at the Faculty of Science New Complex and moved through key locations across the campus, including the Eco Library, Faculty of Management Sciences, Faculty of Education, and the Babatunde Raji Fashola Senate Building, before ending at the University Health Centre where the screening exercise took place.

Despite the intense weather conditions, participants engaged actively in the campaign, distributing informational materials and sensitising the university community on the risks associated with HPV and cervical cancer. The event also featured live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere while reinforcing its health message.

Following the walk, a large turnout of staff and students, predominantly women, participated in the free screening exercise at the health facility.

Speaking on the initiative, the Chairperson of the LASU branch of the organisation, Omolade Okwa, described the programme as a dual-purpose effort aligned with activities marking International Women's Day. She emphasised the importance of health awareness among women, noting that early detection of cervical cancer significantly improves survival outcomes. She added that individuals who test positive would be referred to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital for further management.

Also speaking, Oluwatosin Adu, who leads the Cancer and Drug Discovery Research Group, highlighted the group’s focus on cancer prevention, treatment research, and metabolic disease management. He stressed that increased awareness and early testing are critical in reducing the burden of cervical cancer.

The Principal Investigator of the group, Ronke Saibu, described cervical cancer as a major global health concern and underscored the role of HPV as its primary cause. She noted that vaccination and early screening remain the most effective strategies for prevention and control.

Saibu commended the strong participation recorded during the campaign and acknowledged the support of the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, and the management team.

The free screening exercise was scheduled to continue at the Emergency Ward of the University Health Centre through March 31, 2026, as part of efforts to promote early detection and reduce the prevalence of cervical cancer within the university community.