With the creation of vaccines and improvements in medical research, cervical cancer is now one of the most preventable malignancies. Renowned Cosmetic Gynecologist and PCOS Specialist Dr. Shraddha Goel highlights the significance of comprehending and applying these vaccines as a vital measure in lowering the prevalence of cervical cancer. The purpose of this blog is to provide information about the prevention of cervical cancer through vaccination, the kinds of vaccines that are available, and their advantages.
The Magnitude of Cervical Cancer: Prevalence and Incidence
One of the main causes of cancer-related mortality for women worldwide is cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the fourth most frequent cancer in women, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), with an expected 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths worldwide in 2020 alone. Although it can strike at any age, the condition mainly affects women who are fertile, usually between the ages of 30 and 45. Persistent infection with high-risk strains of the sexually transmitted virus known as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the cause of cervical cancer.
The situation is equally worrying in India. Cervical cancer is the second most frequent cancer among Indian women after breast cancer, and it affects approximately 25% of the world’s population. In India, the incidence rate is roughly 22 per 100,000 women, and every year, almost 100,000 new cases are detected. Cervical cancer is still a major public health concern in the nation, particularly in rural areas with limited access to healthcare facilities, even with the availability of vaccines and screening techniques. In addition, early sexual activity, ignorance, and inadequate immunization rates are blamed for the high prevalence in India.
Understanding Cervical Cancer
The cells of the cervix, the lowest portion of the uterus that joins the vagina, are where cervical cancer starts. The Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a prevalent sexually transmitted infection, is the main cause of it. Nearly all occurrences of cervical cancer are caused by HPV, especially strains 16 and 18, which make up about 70% of cases globally.
Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer
- Continuous HPV infection
- Early intercourse
- Several sexual partners
- Smoking
- Immune system compromise
Vaccination, lifestyle changes, and routine screening are all part of the prevention of cervical cancer.
Role of Vaccines in Cervical Cancer Prevention
HPV vaccinations have been a game-changer in the fight against cervical cancer. By providing protection against the most prevalent strains of HPV that cause cancer, these vaccinations aim to dramatically reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
How HPV Vaccines Work
Virus-like particles (VLPs) that elicit an immune response without infecting people are used to make HPV vaccinations. The immune system produces antibodies after vaccination that can shield the body from HPV infection in the event of future exposure.
Types of HPV Vaccines
There are three main HPV vaccine kinds that are approved for usage. Every vaccine is given according to a set schedule and protects against various viral types.
1. Cervarix
- Coverage: Focuses on types 16 and 18, the two most common HPV strains that cause cancer.
- Recommended For: Women and girls between 9 to 25.
- Schedule: Given three times throughout a six-month period.
- Effectiveness: Protects against cervical cancer produced by these two strains by up to 90%.
2. Gardasil
- Coverage: Offers protect from HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18. The types that cause genital warts are 6 and 11.
- Recommended For: People between the ages of 9 and 26.
- Schedule: Given over the course of six months in three doses.
- Effectiveness: Provides dual protection against genital warts and cervical cancer.
3. Gardasil 9
- Coverage: Offers protection from nine different strains of HPV, including types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58.
- Recommended For: Boys and girls aged 9 to 45.
- Schedule: Depending on age, two or three doses may be given.
- Effectiveness: Provides the most comprehensive protection, encompassing over 90% of cervical malignancies linked to HPV.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
Adults who have not yet been exposed to all of the HPV types covered by the vaccine may still benefit from vaccination, although the HPV vaccine is most effective when given before to exposure to the virus, usually during adolescence.
Recommendations by Age Group
- 9 to 14 years: It is advised to receive the vaccine in two doses separated by six to twelve months.
- 15 to 45 years: For people who begin the immunization series later, three doses are advised.
Importance for Boys and Men
Only women can develop cervical cancer, although men can develop HPV-related conditions such genital warts, anal cancer, and throat cancer.
Benefits of HPV Vaccination
There are several advantages of HPV vaccination, not only for individuals but also for entire communities.
1. Reduction in Cervical Cancer Cases
Widespread vaccination has significantly reduced the prevalence of cervical cancer, according to studies, especially in nations with strong vaccination programs.
2. Protection Against Other Cancers
Additionally, HPV is linked to cancers of the vulva, throat, and anus. Cross-protection against these conditions is provided via vaccination.
3. Decrease in Genital Warts
Additional advantages of vaccines like Gardasil and Gardasil 9 include protection against HPV types that cause genital warts.
4. Herd Immunity
Those who are not vaccinated are indirectly protected when a significant percentage of the population is vaccinated, as this reduces the overall spread of HPV.
Addressing Common Myths About HPV Vaccination
Because of misunderstandings, HPV vaccination frequently encounters opposition despite its demonstrated effectiveness. The facts and prevalent myths are as follows:
Myth 1: HPV Vaccines Encourage Early Sexual Activity
Fact: There is no evidence linking vaccination to an increase in sexual activity. The main goal is to prevent HPV exposure before it occurs.
Myth 2: HPV Vaccines Are Unsafe
Fact: After considerable testing, HPV vaccinations have been approved by international health organizations such as the CDC and WHO. If there are any negative effects, they are brief and minor.
Myth 3: Vaccines Are Only for Girls
Fact: Because HPV vaccination protects a number of diseases linked to HPV, it is beneficial for both boys and girls.
Importance of Regular Screening After Vaccination
It is important to realize that although the HPV vaccine dramatically lowers the risk of cervical cancer, routine cervical cancer screenings are still necessary. Women should continue getting Pap smears or HPV tests, according to Dr. Shraddha Goel, particularly if they received the vaccination later in life. Even those who have had vaccinations may still be susceptible to additional forms of HPV that are not protected by the vaccine, therefore these screenings aid in the early detection of any cervical alterations. Even after immunization, women between the ages of 21 and 65 are generally advised to have Pap screenings every three years. Women can further lower their risk of cervical cancer and other related diseases by combining vaccination with routine screenings.
Overcoming Barriers to HPV Vaccination
There are still a number of obstacles preventing the HPV vaccine from being widely used, particularly in developing nations, despite its demonstrated advantages. These include a lack of knowledge, restricted access to healthcare, and false information regarding the safety of vaccines. Dr. Shraddha Goel emphasizes the value of activism and education in overcoming these challenges. To disseminate correct information regarding the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, community leaders, healthcare professionals, and educational institutions must collaborate. Governments must also make vaccine accessibility a top priority by providing the vaccination through public health systems and making sure it is within the means of all demographic groups. By removing these obstacles, more people will be protected, opening the door to a world free from cervical cancer.
Final Thoughts
Vaccination is essential in preventing cervical cancer, which is a disease that is largely avoidable. Dr. Shraddha Goel is an advocate for raising awareness of the advantages of HPV vaccinations. Cervical cancer and other disorders linked to HPV can be considerably decreased by vaccination both adults and children.
If you haven’t yet considered HPV vaccination for yourself or your loved ones, now is the time to act. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best vaccine and schedule for you. We can all work together to completely eliminate cervical cancer in the future.
