New Delhi: The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is a powerful preventive measure in preventing cervical cancer. Almost all cervical cancer cases are associated with HPV infection, particularly persistent infection with high-risk HPV types. HPV viruses are also responsible for vaginal, vulvar, anal, oral, throat and penile cancers. Dr Aditya Vidushi, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka, explained why the vaccine is important for preventing cervical cancer.
HPV infections are so common that nearly all sexually active men and women will get at least one type of HPV at some time in their lives. Most HPV infections go away by themselves within two years. Around 5% of them progress to a state of persistent infection, which can cause cancer. More than 100 HPV types are known, and 13 types may cause cancer Out of them, types 16 and 18 are the most common ones and account for 70% of cases. The HPV vaccines are designed to protect against the most common high-risk HPV types. Common vaccines include:
- Cervarix: Protects against HPV types 16 and 18.
- Gardasil: Protects against types 6, 11 (low-risk, causing genital warts), and 16, 18.
- Gardasil 9: Protects against types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58.
These are Highly effective in preventing HPV infections and related precancerous lesions when given before exposure to the virus (typically before sexual activity begins). The ideal age for starting the vaccine is 9-10 years. Catch-up vaccination is recommended up to age 26. Some guidelines suggest vaccination up to age 45 after discussing individual benefits.
Vaccination schedule for girls 9 through 14 years: Two doses will be administered at 6 months, 0–6 months. FOR 15 years and older: Three doses are recommended in the schedule 0–1–6 months for Cervarix and 0–2–6 months for Gardasil. Vaccination of males will offer some protection against other HPV-related cancers penis, anus, and oropharynx (mouth and throat). In India, only the HPV 9 vaccine d in a 3-dose schedule of 0-2-6 months is licensed in males.
Widespread vaccination programs have significantly reduced HPV infections, genital warts, and precancerous cervical lesions in vaccinated populations. However There are certain limitations even with its usage The vaccine does not treat existing HPV infections and hence regular cervical cancer screening (e.g., Pap smears, HPV testing) remains essential, even in vaccinated individuals.
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