​To coincide with National Immunization Awareness Week, the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is excited to launch a new health campaign to raise awareness about the HPV vaccine and how it can help protect the health and well-being of First Nations people across BC.

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a common virus that can cause several types of cancer, including cervical cancer, which was the fifth most diagnosed cancer among First Nations people between 2008-2017.

“The goal of this campaign is to raise awareness about the HPV vaccine, which is a safe and effective tool to prevent cancers caused by the HPV virus," says Dr. Nel Wieman, Chief Medical Officer, FNHA. “The FNHA hopes to empower First Nations parents and youth in BC to make informed decisions about the HPV vaccine, for themselves and for their communities."

For you, your future, your community

HPV causes around 630,000 cancer diagnoses around the world each year. 

When given at a young age, the HPV vaccine is over 95 per cent effective at preventing six types of cancer caused by HPV. It is free for youth of all genders across BC and is offered in school starting in Grade 6.

“Around the world, countries are seeing the powerful impact of HPV vaccination," says Brittany Deeter, Director of Communicable Disease Population and Public Health, FNHA. “Research shows cervical cancer is being eliminated in vaccinated groups, highlighting the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine and the power of prevention." 

Where you can see the campaign

The campaign will be featured across a variety of digital and print advertisements in BC, including social media and outdoor ads.

Informational resources are available online and print copies can be requested at hpv@fnha.ca.

You can learn more about HPV and the HPV vaccine at: fnha.ca/HPV.