Awarded the 10th Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Development Cooperation, Nubia Muñoz explains in this interview how her epidemiological research was crucial in demonstrating the link between the human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer, one of the biggest public health problems in low- and middle-income countries. Muñoz details how the scientific evidence she helped generate led to the development of the first preventive HPV vaccines and how their application has a direct impact on reducing female mortality worldwide. Her reflection underscores the importance of clinical research and international cooperation in addressing health inequalities and improving the quality of life for millions of women.
The BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in the Development Cooperation category goes, in this tenth edition, to the Colombian epidemiologist Nubia Muñoz, whose work was
Awarded the 10th Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Development Cooperation, Nubia Muñoz explains in this interview how her epidemiological research was crucial in demonstrating the link between the human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer, one of the biggest public health problems in low- and middle-income countries. Muñoz details how the scientific evidence she helped generate led to the development of the first preventive HPV vaccines and how their application has a direct impact on reducing female mortality worldwide. Her reflection underscores the importance of clinical research and international cooperation in addressing health inequalities and improving the quality of life for millions of women.
The BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in the Development Cooperation category goes, in this tenth edition, to the Colombian epidemiologist Nubia Muñoz, whose work was instrumental in establishing that infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) is the principal and necessary cause of cervical cancer. Her studies played a catalytic role in the development of anti-virus vaccines capable of preventing 70% of all cervical cancers, a disease where 80% of cases involve women in developing countries.
00:00 Introduction
00:05 How did your research succeed in demonstrating the epidemiological link between the human papillomavirus and cervical cancer, and why is this type of research so important?
01:19 With this decision, the jury sought to catalyze public discussion around scientific research. In your view, what is the most important message to convey?
02:50 Can the use of these vaccines also be implemented in males to prevent other types of cancer?
03:53 There has been considerable controversy in the media regarding the effectiveness and safety of these vaccines. What is your opinion on this debate and, more broadly, on resistance to vaccination in certain sectors?
05:39 The jury also highlighted your career as an example for women researchers. What is your view on the current situation of women in the world of science?
06:17 And for you, as a Colombian scientist, what does the opportunity to promote and strengthen epidemiological research through this award mean, particularly in terms of drawing greater attention to research in Colombia?
07:48 In this context, what message would you like to convey to public policymakers to help further advance the progress that has already been made?
08:25 Considering that you live in France, will you have time, for example, to visit cities and communities such as Carmen de Bolívar, where difficulties have arisen, as you yourself have pointed out?
09:40 And finally, what comes next in the research of epidemiologist Nubia Muñoz?
