Vietnam health ministry, MSD launch national HPV awareness campaign

The event brought together leaders from the Ministry of Health, the Vietnam Women's Union, the U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc E. Knapper, representatives from international health organizations, medical professionals, and media representatives.

Deputy Minister of Health Do Xuan Tuyen speaking at the event. Photo by Thao Nguyen

HPV is known to cause several serious health conditions, including cervical, anal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers, affecting both men and women. According to Globocan 2022, Vietnam reports approximately 6,200 HPV-related cancer cases annually, with over 2,500 women dying from cervical cancer each year.

Projections suggest that without timely intervention, as many as 200,000 Vietnamese women could die from HPV-related diseases by 2070. These figures highlight the need for expanded public education and prevention strategies.

Interactive outreach and awareness efforts

As part of the campaign, titled "For a Vietnam Free from the Burdens of HPV", a new AI-powered exhibition using 3D projection technology was introduced to present HPV-related information in an interactive and accessible format. The goal is to make health knowledge more engaging for the public.

During the ceremony, representatives from the National Center for Health Communication and Education and MSD Vietnam conducted a signing ceremony to symbolize the collaboration between both parties in this national campaign, committing to work together on health education programs in various provinces and cities. The campaign will focus on increasing outreach efforts and implementing comprehensive communication strategies in collaboration with local authorities and organizations.

Vu Manh Cuong, Director of the National Centre for Health Education and Communication, Ministry of Health, and Katharina Geppert, Managing Director of MSD Vietnam, at the signing ceremony. Photo by Thao Nguyen

Permanent Deputy Minister of Health Do Xuan Tuyen emphasized that the campaign is an important milestone reflecting the health sector's commitment to disease prevention and public health promotion.

"This campaign will strengthen efforts to raise public awareness about HPV, related diseases, especially cervical cancer, and effective prevention measures," he stated. "It will provide important health knowledge to the population, with a focus on HPV prevention, early detection of cervical cancer and the promotion of proactive health habits and continuous learning."

Vietnam Television has joined the campaign as a strategic media partner to support nationwide dissemination of educational content.

Singer Ha Anh Tuan, serving as MSD's ambassador for the campaign, expressed his hope that his involvement would help broaden public understanding and reduce the burden of HPV-related diseases.

Singer Ha Anh Tuan, MSD's ambassador for the campaign, called on individuals to proactively take care of their own health and the well-being of the community "For a Vietnam free from the burdens of HPV." Photo by Thao Nguyen

In the coming months, the campaign will include community events and exhibitions in Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City, with plans to reach rural areas as well. Organizers aim to engage over 50,000 individuals through these activities.

Technology and public engagement

MSD has incorporated advanced technology into the campaign, using AI and 3D displays to present information about vaccine-preventable diseases in an interactive format. The aim is to support public education and encourage individuals to prioritize their health.

By utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as interactive LED screens, creative games, and augmented reality, attendees can easily access information about preventing HPV-related diseases and cancers. Photo by Thao Nguyen

At the exhibition, Ambassador Marc E. Knapper commended the partnership between the Ministry of Health and MSD. "I'm pleased to see a U.S. pharmaceutical company working alongside Vietnam to raise awareness about HPV-related illnesses," he said. "It's important that all sectors contribute to this effort."

Katharina Geppert, General Manager of MSD Vietnam, noted that 2025 will be a key year for new health initiatives, ahead of the company's 30th anniversary in Vietnam in 2026. She affirmed MSD's continued support for health education and awareness efforts.

"We are honored to partner with the Ministry of Health in promoting HPV awareness and prevention," she said. "Community-wide engagement can empower individuals to take action and support broader public health goals."

The exhibition held on Dinh Tien Hoang Street in Hanoi from March 29 to 30, offerred free admission to the public. It featured a variety of interactive experiences, such as educational games, LED screens, and augmented reality features. Visitors had the opportunity to interact with Minah, an AI ambassador, to learn more about HPV prevention in an engaging and informative way.

The Central Center for Health Communication and Education, under the Ministry of Health, is the lead agency for implementing strategic public health campaigns in Vietnam. It plays a central role in coordinating communication efforts such as this national HPV awareness initiative.

MSD, known as Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA in the United States and Canada, is one of the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical companies in the world. With more than 130 years of experience, the company is at the forefront of research, delivering innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in both people and animals.

The company is committed to sustainability, inclusion, and building a healthier future for communities around the world.

See more information about the company here www.msd-vietnam.com, or connect on Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.