Based on recent research, it has been observed that young women who have received complete vaccination as part of the HPV program have not been diagnosed with cervical cancer.
A recent study conducted by Public Health Scotland (PHS) has revealed that the HPV (human papillomavirus virus) vaccine has demonstrated a high level of effectiveness in preventing the occurrence of cancer.
HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that is responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases, making it one of the most prevalent forms of cancer among women globally.
The vaccination program was initiated in 2008, targeting girls aged 12 or 13 in their first year of high school to receive the shot.
The vaccine, now administered to boys as well, provides protection against various cancers associated with HPV in the future, such as genital warts and cancers affecting the head, neck, and anogenital regions.
What exactly is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?
- HPV is a widely prevalent group of viruses. There are over 100 different types of HPV.
- It is not uncommon for women to contract HPV at some point in their lives without experiencing any negative consequences.
- In most cases, there are no symptoms and the infection will go away on its own. However, in some situations, a chronic infection can progress into cervical illness.
- Certain types of HPV have been linked to the development of certain malignancies, making them high risk.
- The vast majority of cervical cancers (99.7%) are attributed to infection with a high-risk HPV.
- Several types of HPV can impact the mouth, throat, and genital area. HPV can be transmitted through sexual contact.
Turning cervical cancer into a rare illness is a real possibility.
Among women aged 25 to 35 in Scotland, cervical cancer is the most common form of malignancy.
Scotland sees around 300 new cases of cervical cancer in women annually.
Screening is open to women between the ages of 25 and 64.
A collaborative research effort between Public Health Scotland and the Universities of Strathclyde and Edinburgh has yielded results that encompass all eligible women in Scotland who participate in the cervical cancer screening program.
The National Cancer Institute Journal published a report on the results.
According to Dr. Kirsty Roy, a health protection specialist at PHS, the absence of cervical cancer cases in fully vaccinated women who received their first dose of the HPV vaccine at the age of 12-13 years is a clear indication of the vaccine’s effectiveness.
Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer. When combined with regular screening for early detection and treatment, the incidence of cervical cancer can be significantly reduced.
The HPV vaccine program for this year has already begun in schools.
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