Latest news with #HPV-related
Scottish Sun
6 hours ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Women at risk of ‘preventable' cancer due to ‘alarmingly' low uptake of ‘life-saving' jab, health chiefs warn
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) YOUNG women are at higher risk of a "preventable" cancer due to "alarmingly" low uptake of life-saving NHS jabs, health chiefs have warned. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines are dished out to 12 and 13-year-olds and offer protection against cancer-causing strains of the virus. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Low uptake oh HPV vaccines in certain parts of the country leaves young women vulnerable to cancer Credit: AP But low uptake of jabs in certain parts of England is leaving young women vulnerable to cervical cancer and other forms of the disease caused by HPV. HPV is a common virus that's spread through skin contact, usually during sex. Most strains are harmless but some high-risk ones can increase people's chances of developing cervical cancer, as well as mouth, anal, penile, vulval and vaginal cancer. Around 13 high-risk types of HPV are known to cause 99.7 per cent of cervical cancers. Health bosses have made it their mission to eliminate cervical cancer in England by 2040. But despite efforts to increase vaccine uptake in teens, the latest data published by the UK Health Security Agency (HPV) shows gaps in coverage in certain parts of the country, leaving young women in these areas at higher risk of HPV-related cancer. The data on HPV coverage in teens for 2023/24 showed that only 64.9 per cent of Year 10 female students in London had received their jabs. Coverage was also low for boys of the same age in the capital, with only 59 per cent taking up the offer for an HPV vaccine. Meanwhile, HPV coverage was highest in the South East for both genders - where 82.7 per cent of girls and 77.3 per cent of boys had gotten vaccinated by Year 10. At local authority level, Year 10 vaccination levels in girls ranged from 38.7 per cent in Lambeth, South London, to 97.6 per cent in Northumberland. Cervical cancer could be eradicated as HPV vaccine slashes 90% of cases For boys, it ranged from 28.2 per cent in Lambeth to 92.2 per cent in West Berkshire. Cervical cancer rates are already 65 per cent higher in England's most deprived areas compared with the least, according to figures from Cancer Research UK. Dr Sharif Ismail, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: "The HPV vaccine, now just a single dose offered in schools, is one of the most powerful tools we have for cancer prevention. "Every vaccination represents a young person with better protection against the devastating impact of HPV-related cancers and we must do more to ensure that no teenage girl or boy, young woman or man is denied that protection no matter where they live. "Although we have seen some increase in the number of young people being vaccinated, uptake is still well below pre-Covid pandemic levels "Over a quarter of young people - many thousands - are missing out on this potentially life-saving vaccine." The HPV jab is given to boys and girls when they are in Year 8, though some children receive it in Year 9. It delivers a significantly stronger immune response if given before the age of 16, though getting it when older as part of a catch-up programme still creates a strong response. 2 Anyone who missed their HPV vaccination, now just a single jab, can still receive it for free until their 25th birthday through their GP surgery. Up until recently, the HPV jab was only offered to girls. But boys also have an important role to play in helping eliminate cervical cancer by being vaccinated and not passing on the HPV virus when they become sexually active, UKHSA said. Jabs were rolled out to teenage boys in 2019. 'Beat cancer for everyone' Dr Ismail said: "We're calling on all parents to return their children's HPV vaccination consent forms promptly. "This simple action could protect your child from developing cancer in the future." Dr Ismail said any young adult up to age 25 who missed their school jab can speak to their GP about catch-up options. He also urged women to still attend cervical screening to ensure they are being checked for changes that could lead to cervical cancer. "Even if you've had the HPV vaccine, it's vital you still attend your cervical screening appointments when invited," Dr Ismail said. "Both vaccination and screening together give you your best chance of protection against cervical cancer. "Screening can detect abnormal cells before they develop into cancer, allowing for early treatment and prevention." It comes after UKHSA warned earlier this year that over a quarter of schoolkids hadn't had their HPV jab. Cancer Research UK chief executive Michelle Mitchell said: "Thanks to the power of research and the efforts of NHS staff, a future where almost nobody gets cervical cancer is in sight. "This progress hinges on people's access to two life-saving offers - HPV vaccination and screening. Together, they give the best protection against the disease. "Beating cervical cancer means beating it for everyone, so I encourage all parents and guardians to ensure young people don't miss out on getting the HPV vaccine. "And if you receive your cervical screening invite, don't ignore it." Dr Amanda Doyle OBE, national director for primary care and community services at NHS England, said: "The NHS HPV vaccination programme has already helped save thousands of lives and we need to go further to boost uptake of HPV vaccines and cervical screening to help eliminate cervical cancer in England by 2040. "If we can ensure that almost every Year 10 girl in some areas is protected and extremely unlikely to ever develop cervical cancer, we need to match this in every part of the country. "It's vital for boys and young men to be vaccinated too. Rates in boys still lag behind girls and HPV causes thousands of cancers in men as well as things like genital warts."
Daily Mirror
10 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
New 'get vaccinated' plea as fewer people have cancer-preventing jab
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that variations in geographical coverage of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in adolescents across England is leaving young women in some areas with less protection against cervical and some other cancers As Cervical Cancer Screening Awareness week kicks off, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning that disparities in the geographical coverage of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine among adolescents across England are leaving young women in certain areas with less protection against cervical and some other cancers. Despite the potential to eradicate cervical cancer, the most recent UKHSA HPV coverage data for adolescents in 2023-24 reveals inequalities in vaccination uptake across different regions and areas of the country: Studies have demonstrated that receiving the HPV vaccine before the age of 16 results in significantly stronger immune responses and greater protection against HPV-related cancers. While early vaccination is ideal, receiving an HPV vaccination later as part of the catch-up programme still offers robust protection against HPV-related cancers. For those who missed their school HPV vaccinations in year 8 and 9, catch-up options remain available and are highly effective. Anyone who missed their HPV vaccination, now just a single jab, can still receive it for free until their 25th birthday through their GP surgery; this also applies to boys born after September 1, 2006. HPV vaccinations are now also extended to boys in UK schools during years 8 and 9, aimed at safeguarding them from HPV infection and its associated health issues such as genital warts, head and neck cancers (which include mouth and throat), along with genital cancers. Moreover, by getting vaccinated, boys can play a pivotal part in the eradication of cervical cancer by preventing the spread of HPV when they become sexually active. Dr Sharif Ismail, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, emphasised the importance of the vaccine: "The HPV vaccine, now just a single dose offered in schools, is one of the most powerful tools we have for cancer prevention. Every vaccination represents a young person with better protection against the devastating impact of HPV-related cancers and we must do more to ensure that no teenage girl or boy, young woman or man is denied that protection no matter where they live." He also raised concerns about current vaccination rates: "Although we have seen some increase in the number of young people being vaccinated, uptake is still well below pre-Covid pandemic levels. Over a quarter of young people, many thousands, are missing out on this potentially life-saving vaccine, which protects not only against cervical cancer, but all young adults, men and women, against genital warts and some genital cancers, as well as mouth and throat cancers. "We're calling on all parents to return their children's HPV vaccination consent forms promptly. This simple action could protect your child from developing cancer in the future. For young adults up to age 25, who missed their school vaccinations, please speak to your GP about catch-up options – it's never too late to get protected. "And it's important to stress that even if you've had the HPV vaccine, it's vital you still attend your cervical screening appointments when invited. Both vaccination and screening together give you your best chance of protection against cervical cancer." While the HPV vaccine provides excellent protection, attending cervical screening appointments remains crucial, regardless of vaccination status. Screening can detect abnormal cells before they develop into cancer, allowing for early treatment and prevention. 'Uptake is unequal' Cancer Research UK's chief executive, Michelle Mitchell, said: "Thanks to the power of research and the efforts of NHS staff, a future where almost nobody gets cervical cancer is in sight. This progress hinges on people's access to two lifesaving offers - HPV vaccination and screening. Together, they give the best protection against the disease. "Latest data reveals an unequal uptake of the HPV vaccine across England, highlighting the need for local authorities and health services to work together and improve access to these lifesaving opportunities. Beating cervical cancer means beating it for everyone, so I encourage all parents and guardians to ensure young people don't miss out on getting the HPV vaccine. And if you receive your cervical screening invite, don't ignore it." Dr Amanda Doyle OBE, National Director for Primary Care and Community Services at NHS England, said: "The NHS HPV vaccination programme has already helped save thousands of lives and we need to go further to boost uptake of HPV vaccines and cervical screening to help eliminate cervical cancer in England by 2040. "If we can ensure that almost every Year 10 girl in some areas is protected and extremely unlikely to ever develop cervical cancer, we need to match this in every part of the country. It's vital for boys and young men to be vaccinated too – rates in boys still lag behind girls and HPV causes thousands of cancers in men as well as things like genital warts. "I would urge all parents to give their consent for their child to be vaccinated and it's important to remember that those that remain unvaccinated and have left school can still get vital protection by contacting their GP practice to catch up before their 25th birthday. With vaccination being just one dose, it is easier than ever to ensure young people get protection."
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines Strategic Business Research Report 2024-2025 & 2030 - Rising Global Awareness of HPV-Linked Cervical and Oropharyngeal Cancers Drives Preventive Vaccination Uptake
The global Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines market, valued at USD 5.5 billion in 2024, is anticipated to grow to USD 9.7 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 9.9%. This report offers comprehensive analysis of market trends and growth drivers, providing vital insights for businesses. Key highlights include the evolution of vaccine formulations, such as nonavalent vaccines targeting multiple HPV strains, which are crucial in preventing HPV-related cancers globally. Strategic vaccination programs and improved distribution strategies are driving market expansion, particularly in emerging economies. Despite barriers like misinformation and hesitancy, increased public awareness and partnerships with organizations like Gavi are expected to enhance uptake, especially in high-burden regions. The report also assesses the impact of global tariff developments on the HPV vaccines market. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines Market Dublin, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines - Global Strategic Business Report" report has been added to global market for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines was estimated at US$5.5 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$9.7 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 9.9% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines market. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines play a central role in the prevention of HPV-related cancers, including cervical, oropharyngeal, anal, and genital cancers. With over 200 types of HPV identified and high-risk strains such as HPV-16 and HPV-18 accounting for the majority of cervical cancer cases, widespread immunization is viewed as a cornerstone of global cancer prevention strategies. These vaccines stimulate the immune system to develop antibodies against targeted viral strains, offering long-term protection against persistent infections and precancerous lesions. The Growth in the HPV Vaccines Market Is Driven by Several is driven by increasing global efforts to prevent HPV-related cancers, expansion of immunization programs, and the availability of broad-spectrum vaccine formulations. Rising public health investment in women's health and cancer prevention, along with WHO's cervical cancer elimination strategy, is catalyzing demand. The inclusion of boys in vaccination programs and growing incidence of HPV-linked head and neck cancers are further expanding the addressable progress in vaccine efficacy, long-term protection data, and potential single-dose regimens is supporting broader implementation. Additionally, partnerships between governments, vaccine developers, and health organizations are enhancing procurement, education, and infrastructure especially in emerging markets. Digital health platforms and mHealth campaigns are also improving outreach and record tracking, increasing vaccine uptake. Collectively, these trends are reinforcing HPV vaccines as a critical tool in global disease prevention and a dynamic segment within the broader vaccines Are Vaccine Formulations and Distribution Strategies Evolving?HPV vaccines have progressed from bivalent formulations (targeting HPV-16 and 18) to quadrivalent (adding protection against HPV-6 and 11) and now to nonavalent vaccines, which protect against nine HPV strains, including those responsible for up to 90% of cervical cancers. These broader-spectrum vaccines offer greater coverage and are expected to dominate future procurement and immunization programs. Continuous innovation in recombinant vaccine production and adjuvant systems is enhancing immune response and duration of is being optimized through school-based vaccination programs, gender-neutral campaigns, and integration with national childhood immunization schedules. Advances in cold-chain infrastructure, coupled with partnerships between governments, NGOs, and vaccine manufacturers, are improving access in low- and middle-income countries. Single-dose regimens are also under investigation as a cost-effective and logistically simpler alternative, with promising results that may reshape vaccination protocol and broaden global Is Uptake Increasing and What Barriers Remain?Vaccination uptake is rising in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia-Pacific where public awareness, healthcare infrastructure, and policy support are strong. Gender-neutral vaccination strategies are gaining traction, particularly in countries prioritizing the prevention of head and neck cancers linked to HPV in males. Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa, despite high HPV burden, still face challenges including supply limitations, healthcare access gaps, and cultural include misinformation, vaccine hesitancy, and inconsistent public health messaging, particularly in conservative or resource-constrained regions. Limited adult vaccination programs and affordability issues also hamper broader market penetration. However, partnerships with organizations such as Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, are actively addressing supply inequities and financial barriers through tiered pricing and donor-funded initiatives. As these issues are mitigated, market growth is expected to accelerate, particularly in high-burden Insights: Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Tetravalent segment, which is expected to reach US$5.8 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 9.5%. The Nonavalent segment is also set to grow at 11.3% CAGR over the analysis period. Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, valued at $1.5 Billion in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 13.4% CAGR to reach $2.0 Billion by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific. Report Features: Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030. In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa. Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as Barinthus Biotherapeutics, Bharat Biotech, BioNTech SE, CanSino Biologics Inc., and more. Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments. This edition integrates the latest global trade and economic shifts as of June 2025 into comprehensive market analysis. Key updates include: Tariff and Trade Impact: Insights into global tariff negotiations across 180+ countries, with analysis of supply chain turbulence, sourcing disruptions, and geographic realignment. Special focus on 2025 as a pivotal year for trade tensions, including updated perspectives on the Trump-era tariffs. Adjusted Forecasts and Analytics: Revised global and regional market forecasts through 2030, incorporating tariff effects, economic uncertainty, and structural changes in globalization. Includes segmentation by product, technology, type, material, distribution channel, application, and end-use, with historical analysis since 2015. Strategic Market Dynamics: Evaluation of revised market prospects, regional outlooks, and key economic indicators such as population and urbanization trends. Innovation & Technology Trends: Latest developments in product and process innovation, emerging technologies, and key industry drivers shaping the competitive landscape. Competitive Intelligence: Updated global market share estimates for 2025, competitive positioning of major players (Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial), and refined focus on leading global brands and core players. Expert Insight & Commentary: Strategic analysis from economists, trade experts, and domain specialists to contextualize market shifts and identify emerging opportunities. Complimentary Update: Buyers receive a free July 2025 update with finalized tariff impacts, new trade agreement effects, revised projections, and expanded country-level coverage. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 279 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $5.5 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $9.7 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 9.9% Regions Covered Global MARKET OVERVIEW Influencer Market Insights World Market Trajectories Tariff Impact on Global Supply Chain Patterns Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines - Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2025 (E) Competitive Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for Players Worldwide in 2025 (E) MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Rising Global Awareness of HPV-Linked Cervical and Oropharyngeal Cancers Drives Preventive Vaccination Uptake Inclusion of HPV Vaccines in National Immunization Programs Expands Coverage Across Adolescents and Young Adults WHO and GAVI Support for HPV Vaccine Rollout in Low-Income Countries Strengthens Public Health Impact Expansion of Gender-Neutral Vaccination Policies Fuels Demand Across Male and Female Populations Technological Advancements in Vaccine Formulations Improve Long-Term Efficacy and Broaden Strain Coverage Increased School-Based Immunization Drives High Compliance Rates in Developed and Emerging Regions Public-Private Partnerships and Awareness Campaigns Boost Community-Level Vaccine Acceptance Improved Cold Chain Infrastructure and Global Procurement Facilitate Distribution to Remote Areas Rising Incidence of HPV-Associated Head and Neck Cancers Spurs Broader Advocacy for Adult Vaccination Growing Market Entry of Biosimilar and Region-Specific HPV Vaccines Enhances Accessibility and Affordability FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS Barinthus Biotherapeutics Bharat Biotech BioNTech SE CanSino Biologics Inc. GlaxoSmithKline plc Inovio Pharmaceuticals Johnson & Johnson Merck & Co., Inc. Moderna, Inc. Novavax, Inc. Pfizer Inc. Sanofi S.A. Serum Institute of India Sinovac Biotech Ltd. Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Valneva SE Vaxart, Inc. Walvax Biotechnology Co., Ltd. Wantai BioPharm Xiamen Innovax Biotech Co., Ltd. For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900
Scotsman
2 days ago
- Health
- Scotsman
Throat Cancer Foundation urges immediate action on HPV vaccine inequality
The Throat Cancer Foundation has expressed deep concern following the BBC's reporting on significant disparities in HPV vaccination rates among young people in Scotland, particularly in the country's most deprived communities. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... According to data published by Public Health Scotland, vaccine uptake among 12–13 year-olds in the least affluent areas has dropped to just 59.9%, compared to 82.1% in the most affluent. This gap leaves thousands of young people—especially boys—vulnerable to HPV-related throat cancers, which are rising sharply in men across the UK. 'This is a public health failure in slow motion,' said Gordon Dow, Trustee of the Throat Cancer Foundation. 'HPV doesn't care where you live. The children most at risk are the least protected, and the consequences will be devastating unless this trend is reversed. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The Foundation echoes the concerns of Dr Claire Cameron, Consultant in Health Protection at PHS, who warned the BBC that 'inequalities are increasing' in the wake of the Covid pandemic. TCF supports Dr Cameron's call for universal vaccine confidence and equity in access, particularly in communities where trust in healthcare and education has been fractured. TCF_logo HPV—Human papillomavirus—is the cause of nearly all cervical cancers and a growing number of head, neck, and throat cancers, especially in men. Since the HPV vaccination programme's rollout in 2008, the UK has seen zero cases of cervical cancer among fully vaccinated women—a medical triumph. But awareness of HPV's link to throat cancer remains dangerously low. 'We must urgently reframe this issue, said Gordon Dow. This isn't just about cervical cancer. HPV is the fastest-growing cause of throat cancer, and most cases occur in men. Boys are not an afterthought—they are central to this conversation.' The Throat Cancer Foundation is calling for: A renewed public health campaign on the full spectrum of HPV-related cancers, including throat cancer Targeted outreach in schools in deprived areas, building on programmes like the one at Castlebrae High School, led by Dom Cairns-Gibson and Edinburgh University's BioQuarter team Collaboration with Public Health Scotland to support local vaccine confidence and education initiatives Immediate inclusion of throat cancer prevention in all HPV public messaging HPV_virus 'As one young pupil said in the BBC report, 'getting more information helps you not get scared.' We agree. We will not allow a generation of young people—especially boys—to miss out on life-saving protection because of postcode inequality or lack of awareness.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad
New Indian Express
4 days ago
- Health
- New Indian Express
HPV major factor for cancers in youngsters, say docs
It was in her late 40s that Meena (name changed), a mother of two, was diagnosed with cervical cancer after her routine check-up. 'She was reluctant to undergo testing and came for routine check-ups as her daughter compelled her to. The test was positive. So we sent the samples for biopsy and referred her to the department of surgical oncology,' said Dr Teena Anne Joy, a senior consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology at Aster Medcity, Kochi. As the condition was diagnosed at an early stage, she was provided with effective treatment and interventions to cure the condition. 'When it comes to human papillomavirus (HPV)-related conditions and cancers, early identification and screening are important, as the condition is asymptomatic in the early stages. Because the condition is quite common among people, screening is important. All women in the age of 26-65 years should undergo screening every three years. The prevalence of the condition is on the rise in the country,' Dr Teena said, emphasising the significance of the prevention of HPV-related cancers in women as well as men. According to Dr K Pavithran, head of medical oncology at Amrita Hospital, Kochi, human papillomavirus is a significant factor causing cancers in youngsters. 'HPV infection is most commonly asymptomatic. Low-risk strains of HPV can cause warts, while high-risk strains are associated with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, penile, and oropharyngeal carcinomas. It is estimated that 90% of cervical and anal cancers, 70% of vulvar and vaginal cancers, 60% of penile cancers, and 70% of oropharyngeal cancers are due to persistent, high-risk HPV infection,' he said. India contributed to 7% of the global cancer incidence and 24% of global HPV-related cancer incidence in 2020, according to the study 'Epidemiology of human papillomavirus-related cancers in India: findings from the National Cancer Registry Programme', published in 2022. Four out of five cervical cancers reported in India were caused by infections from HPV types 16 and 18. The study also indicates that cervical and oropharyngeal cancers were the most common HPV-related cancers among females and males, respectively, in India. These cancers together contributed to around 85% of total HPV-related cancers. Other findings of the study According to the study, six out of 10 HPV-related cancers among males in India were oropharyngeal cancers Vulval and vaginal cancers are rare cancers that showed a minor decline in incidence during the long term in India Penile and anal cancer together constitute 1.2% of total cancer cases in India According to Dr Aju Mathews, there is a decline in HPV-related cervical cancers, but at the same time, they are increasing in oral cancers. 'HPV-related cancers are preventable, and therefore more awareness in HPV screening and vaccination will help prevent future cancers, especially cervical cancer. Screening is very important for early detection of cervical cancer. These tests are very easily done through the HPV DNA test or the Pap smear test,' he said. 'Though HPV is often associated with cervical cancer in females, it also causes serious illness in men,' according to Dr Rema P, additional professor and head of gynaecologic oncology at the Regional Cancer Centre. Screening As there is no symptom for human papillomavirus, Dr Rema emphasised the significance of routine screening in early detection and treatment of the condition. 'Unlike other diseases, HPV-related cancers affect people at a young age, in their forties and fifties. Thus, it affects productivity as well as quality of life. Awareness about the virus, its spread, and prevention is important,' said Dr Rema. 'The state governments and non-governmental organisations have been organising mass screening programmes to prevent the spread of the condition. Healthcare facilities are easily accessible to the public now. Thus, utilising such opportunities can help identify the condition early. Early detection helps in curing the condition as well as improving the quality of life,' added Dr Teena. Screening helps in the early detection of cervical cancer: If you are in the 21-29 years age group, consider getting a Pap smear test at 21 years, followed by Pap testing every 3 years If you are in the 30-65 years age group, screen for cervical cancer using one of the following methods: HPV test every 5 yrs | HPV/Pap co-test every 5 yrs | Pap test every 3 yrs Vaccination 'Almost everyone will get HPV once in their lifetime. Vaccination and screening go hand in hand in preventing HPV-related cancers. Vaccination is given to girls and boys, from the age of nine, and young adults. There is a section of people who believe that vaccination is only for girls. However, boys also need the HPV vaccine to protect against HPV-related cancers, including penile, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers, and to help prevent the spread of the virus. It also protects their partners,' she added. 'HPV vaccines are highly effective in preventing HPV infections and related diseases. Efficacy is more than 90% against HPV infection,' emphasised Dr Pavithran. The condition should not occur in people or cause difficulties in people when we have effective vaccination available, according to Dr Teena. WHO recommended dosage Girls aged 9–14 years: One or two doses Young women aged 15–20 years: One or two doses Women over 21 years: Two doses spaced six months apart 'HPV vaccination is not included in the national immunisation programme yet. But the vaccination is available. Administering vaccination in children above nine can prevent the disease. The immunity level differs from person to person. We don't know who will contract the virus. It is safe to get vaccinated,' she added. 'Prevention can be effectively done through HPV vaccination. When the uptake of prevention and screening is very high, we effectively eliminate cervical cancer from our society. HPV-related cancers will rise if vaccination and screening are not adopted in our community,' said Dr Aju, adding that initially the numbers were high and have now dropped due to improved hygiene. Awareness Youngsters should be aware of the spread of HPV and the issues caused by the condition as changes in culture and lifestyle add to the risk of infection. 'Safe sexual practices and HPV vaccination are important. Parents should also take the initiative to educate children about the prevalence and risk caused by HPV. Better awareness regarding safe sexual practices and vaccination can help prevent HPV-related diseases,' Dr Teena said, adding that several non-governmental organisations and governments have also taken initiatives to educate the public. Dr Pavithran also emphasised the significance of better awareness among youngsters about the virus and how it spreads. 'HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide, and nearly all sexually active people will get HPV at some point in their lives. Teenagers and young adults have the highest prevalence of HPV. Better awareness about viruses and their spread can significantly reduce the occurrence of related conditions by promoting preventive behaviours, early detection, and timely interventions,' he added.
