Saving Lives Together: HPV Vaccine Awareness & Cervical Cancer Advocacy

As we observe HPV Vaccine Awareness Day in conjunction with Cervical Cancer Awareness, it i's imperative to recognize the intertwined significance of these two initiatives in safeguarding public health. Human Papilloma virus (HPV) is a pervasive viral infection that can lead to various cancers, with cervical cancer being one of the most prominent and preventable outcomes. HPV vaccines represent a crucial tool in the fight against cervical cancer, offering protection against the strains of the virus most commonly associated with this disease.

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in South Africa, after breast cancer specifically among adolescents and women between the ages of 15 to 44. On an average 5000 new cases are reported each year in South Africa, with most being fatal. It is common knowledge that cervical cancer is caused by the infection of the cervix by the HPV which is sexually transmitted. 

The Provincial Department of Health has reported that between April and December 2023, 167 109 men sought treatment at public health facilities and 67 400 were treated for male urethritis syndrome(MUS). The increase is worrying from 12% in 2020 to 15% in 2023. It was in a specific area in and around Johannesburg, West Rand, Katlehong, Sedibeing and Tshwane. We are going backwards despite the gains we had made in our successful ARV rollout program. It's becoming clear that the use of  condoms is dropping, or they are not used consistently. Schools around South Africa should introduce HPV campaigns to inform young adolescents and their parents about where and how they can receive the HPV Vaccine and prevent cervical cancer.

Efficacy and Safety: Ensuring Protection

Types: There are several HPV vaccines available, including Gardasil, Gardasil 9, and Cervarix. Gardasil 9 is the most common vaccine used in many countries.

Target Age: The first dose of the HPV vaccine is typically recommended for adolescents around the age of 11 or 12, although it can be given as early as age 9.

Dosage: The standard HPV vaccination schedule involves a series of doses. The first dose is administered, followed by a second dose 6-12 months later, and a third dose 6-12 months after the second dose. However, the exact schedule may vary depending on the specific vaccine and the individual's age at the time of vaccination.

Effectiveness: The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection, with the HPV strains included in the vaccine. Gardasil 9, for example, protects against nine different strains of HPV, including those most commonly associated with cervical cancer.

 The HPV vaccine stands as a critical tool in safeguarding public health by effectively preventing infection with certain strains of the human-papilloma virus. With its demonstrated efficacy in reducing the incidence of HPV-related cancers and diseases, particularly cervical cancer, the vaccine offers immense potential for saving lives and improving the quality of life for countless individuals worldwide