Cervical cancer is the sixth most common among women in Malaysia and the fourth most common among women worldwide. January is observed globally as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, aimed at raising awareness about prevention, early detection and treatment. Their understanding of the benefits of HPV vaccination directly influences vaccine acceptance and uptake, the ministry said. “HPV vaccination protects against the human papillomavirus, which is the primary cause of cervical cancer – a disease that remains a significant public health concern,” it said. Due to these reasons and others, many girls did not receive the HPV vaccination,” he said.

Source: The Star January 11, 2026 03:54 UTC