Bangkok:Chulabhorn Royal Academy has initiated a campaign to combat HPV, titled "HPV is Our Business Show Your Love by Encouraging Prevention." The campaign encourages Thai society to prioritize health and cancer prevention, featuring celebrities Nadech Kugimiya and Yaya Urassaya Sperbund as spokespersons to promote awareness across all genders.
According to Thai News Agency, the campaign was launched in collaboration with Chulabhorn Hospital, the Ministry of Public Health, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Thailand, and the Head and Neck Cancer Society. It marks the 20th anniversary of the HPV vaccine and aims to educate the public on the importance of prevention for both men and women. The event included discussions with the celebrity couple, who emphasized shared health awareness.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Surasak Leelaudomlip, Acting Director of Chulabhorn Hospital, highlighted the hospital's commitment to cancer prevention, in line with the aspirations of Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Walailak. The hospital seeks to provide universal healthcare access and improve the quality of life for Thai people. The campaign aims to create a cancer-free society by raising awareness and expanding access to HPV vaccines.
The campaign emphasizes that HPV is not solely a women's issue. Men are also at risk of infection and transmission, with HPV linked to several diseases, including oral and throat cancer. Dr. Sarikapan Wilailak, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Thailand, stressed the importance of shifting perspectives to see prevention as a concern for all genders.
Over the past 20 years, HPV vaccines have proven effective, yet societal understanding often limits the perception of HPV to women's health. The campaign seeks to broaden this understanding and encourage men to consult doctors about vaccination.
Nadech Kugimiya urged men to proactively seek prevention, while Yaya Urassaya encouraged support for loved ones in researching and consulting about HPV prevention. The campaign aligns with the message "HPV is our business - show your love by helping others prevent it."
HPV is a common virus affecting both genders, and while many infections resolve on their own, persistent high-risk types can lead to serious health issues. Thailand aims to follow WHO guidelines in eradicating cervical cancer, with prevention tools such as HPV vaccines and testing showing positive results in reducing incidence rates.