Annika shares her journey with vulvar cancer

World Gynecologic Oncology Day would like to thank Esperanza, our Belgian patient organization, for recording and subtitling this video.

At 33 years old, Annika went in for a routine Pap smear following the COVID-19 pandemic, expecting a standard checkup. Instead, doctors discovered abnormal cells caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Just a week and a half later, she received a vaginal cancer diagnosis and began immediate treatment. Because vaginal cancer often develops silently, or presents with subtle signs like unusual discharge or abnormal bleeding, Annika emphasises that routine screening ultimately saved her life.

Treatment brought profound long-term challenges, including radiation-induced fertility loss, chronic fatigue, and extensive physical rehabilitation. Three years post-diagnosis, Annika continues to navigate the lasting physical and emotional weight of survivorship.

Today, Annika uses her story to advocate passionately for prevention and early detection. She highlights that HPV is a common virus affecting up to 80% of people, causing not only cervical and vaginal cancers in women, but also vulvar, anal, penile, and throat cancers in both men and women. She urges parents and communities to support HPV vaccination for young boys and girls before they become sexually active, noting that vaccinating both genders prevents virus transmission and protects against cancer. Her ultimate message to everyone is simple yet vital: get vaccinated, never skip routine health checks, and listen to your body, because timely screenings can save lives.

Watch Annika's full story on the World Gynecologic Oncology Day YouTube.(opens in new tab). Like, comment, and share to help this message reach more women who need to hear it!