Beijing+30 Youth Blog: Gender equality and women’s rights cannot be separated from women’s access to healthcare
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Nazlı Küçükyeşil, a 23-year-old student at Hacettepe University in Ankara, Türkiye, is actively engaged in gender studies. Photo: Personal archive.
Gender equality and women’s rights are crucial issues that require attention in every community, country, and region. The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, with its 12 critical areas of concern, provides a framework to address these issues comprehensively. In Türkiye, one area where gender equality and women’s rights are still challenged is the perception and availability of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
Discussions about sex and sexual health remain largely taboo in Türkiye, making open conversations about HPV vaccination difficult. The link between HPV and sexual activity has contributed to stigma, further hindering acceptance and access to the vaccine.
Human papillomavirus includes both low-risk types, which can cause genital warts, and high-risk types, which are linked to cancer. HPV 16 is the most common high-risk strain, responsible for approximately 50-60% of cervical cancer cases, while HPV 18 accounts for 10-15%. In Türkiye, the prevalence rate of HPV types 16 and 18 stands at 75.4%.
Vaccination and regular screenings are essential for prevention. In recent years, concerns about HPV and discussions around providing free vaccines in Türkiye have gained attention.
A stark example of misinformation occurred when a false rumor claimed that the HPV vaccine could cause genital loss in males, sparking widespread concern. This reaction highlights how patriarchal norms often prioritize men’s interests while neglecting women’s health. Meanwhile, cervical cancer – caused primarily by HPV – remains the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide. In Türkiye, high treatment costs and stigma further limit access to screenings, leaving many women unaware of HPV’s connection to genital cancer.
Women who have shared their HPV experiences on social media platforms such as TikTok and Twitter have faced backlash and shaming – an unfortunate reflection of deep-rooted taboos surrounding women’s sexuality.
Fortunately, after years of advocacy, a major breakthrough came when the mayor of Ankara announced that the HPV vaccine would be provided free of charge to women aged 9-30. This marks a significant step forward in promoting women’s health and dismantling stigma. However, a critical question remains: How many women will overcome societal backlash and judgement to access this life-saving vaccine?
For me, the fight for HPV vaccination in Türkiye is deeply personal. My mother battled cancer four times, enduring unimaginable physical and emotional challenges. Witnessing her strength and determination to overcome this disease has made me acutely aware of the importance of preventive measures in healthcare.
As I learned more about HPV and its link to various types of cancer, including cervical cancer, I realized that the HPV vaccine isn’t just a medical intervention – it’s a powerful tool for prevention. My mother’s journey is a clear testament to the necessity of proactive measures to safeguard women’s health. It has taught me that taking control of our bodies and prioritizing preventive healthcare should be an empowering choice, free from judgment or stigma.
In many countries, girls receive the HPV vaccine as early as middle school, recognizing that prevention is better than cure. It is time for women in Türkiye to raise their voices, educate their parents and communities, and empower younger generations to prioritize their health.
Let’s be clear: Contracting HPV does not reflect a person’s morality. Every individual has the right to make choices concerning their body and life, and women’s bodies should not be subjected to men’s judgment or control. Additionally, men should also receive the HPV vaccine – not only to protect themselves but also because they may be carriers of the virus.
By sharing personal stories, including those of our mothers and loved ones who have battled with cancer, raising awareness, and challenging harmful stereotypes, we can break the silence surrounding HPV and women’s health. Through collective action and open dialogue, we can create an environment where women feel empowered to prioritize their well-being without fear of judgment or shame.
Gender equality and women’s rights cannot be separated from women’s access to healthcare. The HPV vaccine is more than just a shot – it’s a critical step toward protecting women’s health. But to overcome stigma, we must first challenge the deep-seated societal attitudes that restrict conversations about women’s sexuality.
Nazlı Küçükyeşil. Photo: Personal archive.
Biography: Nazlı Küçükyeşil is a 23-year-old student at Hacettepe University in Ankara, Türkiye, majoring in American Studies. Passionate about gender issues and social progress, she has been actively engaged in gender studies throughout her academic journey.
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This blog post is part of the Beijing+30 “Speak Youth to Power” series, and the opinions and views expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of UN Women, the United Nations, or its Member States.