The date marks the global mobilization promoted by the World Health Organization; The historic building that was Vital Brasil’s residence will be illuminated in teal to draw attention to prevention and diagnostic measures
The Vaccine Museum at the Butantan Institute, in São Paulo, will be illuminated on Monday (17) in teal (bluish-green) as part of World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day, a global event created by the World Health Organization to mobilize countries to eliminate cervical cancer. This date is celebrated around the world with Illumination Day, an action that illuminates historical monuments in many countries to raise awareness about disease prevention.
Photo: Disclosure/Brazil File
The Vaccine Museum – opened in 2023 and installed in the historic house that was the residence of Vital Brasil, the Brazilian scientist, public health scientist and founder of the Butantan Institute – has great symbolic value for Brazilian science. Converted into a museum with an emphasis on education and scientific culture, this place enhances the national legacy of research, immunization and public health advocacy. Illuminating the building consolidates memory, knowledge and social mobilization around a pressing issue. Vital Brazil has become known worldwide for its discovery of antivenom properties, spider bite serum, antitetanus, diphtheria serum, and treatment of scorpion bites. A series of discussions with experts precedes the lighting ceremony at the Vaccine Museum.
The Day of Lighting initiative is part of the Brazil Without Cervical Cancer movement, formulated by EVA – the Brazilian Gynecological Oncology Group, in partnership with several medical societies, patient NGOs and scientific institutions and with the support of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) / World Health Organization (WHO). The movement brings together entities committed to effective prevention policies, early diagnosis,
HPV vaccination and reducing inequalities in access to care. Cervical cancer is highly preventable. With vaccination against HPV, regular screening tests and timely access to them
It is possible to eliminate the disease as a public health problem, which is the global goal set by the World Health Organization in 2020. In Brazil, despite progress, deaths remain high, especially among women in areas most at risk.
exhibition. The lighting in the Vaccine Museum confirms that eliminating the disease is possible, as long as there is social, scientific and political mobilization. Brazil, which has a history of high compliance with vaccination, faces challenges
Misinformation due to anti-vaccine movements, and thus insufficient adherence to the human papillomavirus vaccine, a virus that is directly linked to cervical cancer.
to Andrea argued with herpresident of EVA – the Brazilian Gynecological Oncology Group, the day of illumination carries a strong warning: “When we light up a space like the Vaccine Museum, we also light up collective consciousness. Cervical cancer prevention is within our reach. We need to expand HPV vaccination, ensure access to quality testing and combat the inequalities that continue to claim lives.” “Can be saved”He says.
During this event, representatives of partner entities will promote the need to expand HPV vaccination, improve organized screening and enhance comprehensive care for women. This symbolic act adds to the efforts of organizations such as SBOC, Febrasgo, and Oncoguia, among many others that make up the National Alliance to End Cervical Cancer.
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