Women health — how important is HPV vaccination

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV, a common virus transmitted through sexual contact, has the potential to cause serious health issues, including cervical cancer, genital warts, and other cancers of the reproductive tract. To combat the spread of HPV and its associated diseases, vaccination has emerged as a crucial preventive measure, particularly for adolescents and young adults. And, its benefits include:

Protecting adolescents and young adults

The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection with the types of HPV most linked to cancer and genital warts. By vaccinating adolescents and young adults, we can provide them with long-lasting protection against HPV-related diseases, including cervical cancer, which is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide.

Preventing cervical cancer

Cervical cancer affects a million women worldwide every year, making it one of the most adverse effects of HPV infection. The HPV vaccination targets the strains of HPV that are most often linked to cervical cancer, providing considerable protection against the disease. Studies have shown that vaccination can reduce the incidence of cervical precancers and early-stage cervical cancer, potentially saving thousands of lives annually.

Reducing the Risk of Genital Warts

Vaccination is also effective in reducing the risk of genital warts. In addition to cervical cancer, HPV infection can also cause genital warts, a common and highly contagious sexually transmitted infection. The HPV vaccine provides effective protection against genital warts, reducing the risk of transmission and the burden of associated healthcare costs and emotional distress.

Promoting Herd Immunity

High vaccination rates among adolescents and young adults not only protect individuals who receive the vaccine but also contribute to herd immunity within the population. Herd immunity occurs when a significant portion of the population is vaccinated, making it harder for the virus to spread and protecting those who are not vaccinated, including individuals who may be unable to receive the vaccine for medical reasons.

Empowering Adolescents and Young Adults

By vaccinating adolescents and young adults against HPV, we empower them to take control of their sexual health and reduce their risk of HPV-related diseases later in life. The vaccine is safe, and effective starting at age 11 or 12 and up to age 26 for those who have not been previously vaccinated. Both boys and girls need to receive the HPV vaccine to protect against certain types of cancer.

The HPV vaccine offers numerous benefits for adolescents and young adults, including protection against cervical cancer, genital warts, and other HPV-related diseases. By promoting vaccination and increasing access to the vaccine, we can improve the health and well-being of individuals worldwide, while also reducing the burden of HPV-related diseases on healthcare systems and society. Healthcare providers, policymakers, and parents need to work together to ensure that all adolescents and young adults have access to this life-saving vaccine.

—The author, Dr. Praveen, is Surgical Oncologist, HCG Cancer Center, Vijayawada. The views expressed are personal.

Even as the subject healthcare often gets just a passing mention in most Union Budgets in India, it was worth noting that Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman strongly advocated in the Interim Budget 2024 vaccination againstfor girls for the prevention of cervical cancer in India.