World Food Program and Aventino Medical Group Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination campaign

World Food Program  and Aventino Medical Group

Understanding HPV and the Importance of Vaccination

Introduction

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is one of the most common viruses worldwide, with over 200 identified types. Some are harmless, but others can cause skin lesions, genital warts, and, in more severe cases, lead to the development of cancers, including cervical, anal, throat, and other genital cancers. Fortunately, there is a safe and effective vaccine that protects against many types of HPV. In this article, we will explain what HPV is, how the vaccine works, who it is recommended for, and why it is so important.

What is HPV?

HPV is a group of viruses primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including direct contact with genital areas. It can infect both men and women of all ages. Most people come into contact with at least one type of HPV during their lifetime. While many infections cause no symptoms or problems, some high-risk types can lead to cancers or other diseases if the infection persists.

  • High-risk HPV: Types 16 and 18 cause about 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide and a significant portion of anal, vulvar, vaginal, and oropharyngeal cancers.
  • Low-risk HPV: Types 6 and 11 are responsible for approximately 90% of genital warts and can also cause respiratory papillomatosis, which affects the airways.

Who is at risk?

General risk

Anyone who is sexually active can contract HPV. Even with condom use, which reduces the risk, protection is not absolute since the virus can infect areas of the skin not covered by the condom. Factors such as having new sexual partners, a weakened immune system, and age can increase the likelihood of contracting HPV.

Specific risk for women

In women, persistent HPV infection can lead to precancerous lesions and invasive cancers, particularly cervical cancer. HPV is responsible for about 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide. Other areas at risk include the vulva and vagina.

Specific risk for men

In men, persistent HPV infection can lead to anal, oropharyngeal, and penile cancers. Although the risk of HPV-related cancers is generally lower in men than in women, vaccination is essential to reduce these risks and to provide indirect protection for women by decreasing virus transmission.

Why is HPV vaccination important?

Vaccination is a crucial tool in preventing many HPV-related complications:

  1. Cancer prevention: The vaccine can prevent most cancers linked to the virus, especially when administered before exposure (typically before the onset of sexual activity).
  2. Reduction of other diseases: It can prevent most genital warts, which are often bothersome and sometimes require repeated treatments.
  3. Safety and efficacy: Scientific studies show that the vaccine is very safe. The most common side effects are mild, such as soreness at the injection site. It is also highly effective in preventing HPV infections that cause cancers and genital warts.
  4. Widespread protection (herd immunity): A broad vaccination coverage reduces the circulation of the virus in the population, protecting even those who are not vaccinated.

Types of HPV Vaccines

Three main vaccines have been developed against HPV:

  1. Bivalent vaccine: Protects against types 16 and 18, the primary causes of cervical cancer.
  2. Quadrivalent vaccine: Protects against types 6, 11, 16, and 18.
  3. 9-valent vaccine (Gardasil 9): Covers the four types in the quadrivalent vaccine plus five additional high-risk types (31, 33, 45, 52, and 58), offering broader protection.

Who should get vaccinated?

  • Recommended age: Between 11 and 12 years, but it can be administered as early as 9 years old.
  • Catch-up vaccination: Recommended up to 26 years old for those who have not completed the vaccination series.
  • Adults over 27 years: In the United States, the vaccine is approved up to 45 years old. The decision to vaccinate should be made on a case-by-case basis with a healthcare provider, especially for those with new sexual partners or other risk factors.
  • Special cases: People with HIV or weakened immune systems should receive three doses of the vaccine regardless of age. Pregnant women should complete the vaccination series after pregnancy.

How is the vaccine administered?

  • Under 15 years old: Two doses at least six months apart.
  • 15 years and older: Three doses (at 0, 2, and 6 months).
  • Immunocompromised patients: Always three doses, regardless of age. If a dose is missed, it is not necessary to restart the series; the next dose should be administered as soon as possible.

Is the HPV vaccine safe?

All HPV vaccines have undergone extensive testing in clinical trials involving millions of people. The most common side effects include mild pain at the injection site, redness, and swelling. Serious complications are extremely rare.

Respected organizations such as the WHO and CDC reaffirm the safety and efficacy of HPV vaccines.

Screening and vaccination

Even those who have received the vaccine should continue regular screening programs, such as Pap tests or HPV tests, as the vaccine does not protect against all HPV types.

Conclusion

The fight against HPV involves awareness, prevention, and vaccination. Investing in health today means drastically reducing the risk of future diseases, promoting a healthier life for yourself and those around you.

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