Preventing HPV Infection through Vaccination

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide and can lead to various health complications, including genital warts and certain types of cancer. However, there are effective tools in combating this silent threat, and one of them is the HPV vaccine.

Understanding HPV:

HPV refers to a group of viruses that infect the skin and mucous membranes, primarily through sexual contact. Anyone who is sexually active is at risk of infection. There are more than 100 types of HPV, and some strains pose a higher risk of causing cancer and other infections in the genital area.

The importance of HPV vaccination:

1. Preventing cervical cancer: HPV infection is a major cause of cervical cancer. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of this life-threatening disease, making it crucial for both males and females to receive the vaccine before becoming sexually active.

2. Preventing other cancers: In addition to cervical cancer, HPV can also cause other types of cancer, such as anal, vulvar, vaginal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancer. Vaccination decreases the likelihood of developing these cancers in the future.

3. Preventing genital warts: Certain strains of HPV are highly contagious and can lead to the development of genital warts. Vaccination effectively protects against these strains, reducing the risk of infection and the occurrence of genital warts.

4. Herd immunity: HPV vaccination not only protects individuals who receive the vaccine but also contributes to herd immunity. By reducing the prevalence of HPV in the community, the vaccine helps protect individuals who are not vaccinated or unable to receive the vaccine for medical reasons.

Safety and efficacy of vaccines:

Extensive research and numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of the HPV vaccine. This vaccine is recommended for both males and females and is generally administered in two or three doses over several months. Common side effects, if any, are mild and temporary, such as soreness at the injection site.

The HPV vaccine is a crucial tool in preventing health complications related to HPV, including cervical, anal, and genital cancers. By getting vaccinated, individuals not only protect themselves but also contribute to reducing the spread of HPV in the community. For further information about the HPV vaccine and its suitability for you or your loved ones, regardless of gender, it is advisable to consult healthcare professionals.

For those interested or with inquiries about HPV vaccines, you can contact Glove Clinic through their Line Official account (@gloveclinic), inbox them via the Glove Clinic Facebook page, or call 092-414-9254. 

This article aims to provide information only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult healthcare providers for personalized advice regarding vaccination and healthcare concerns.

Interesting information about HPV virus:

1. It is now well known that the HPV virus is the main cause of cervical cancer, which is the second most common cancer in women. According to statistical data, in the year 2020, there were approximately 600,000 women worldwide diagnosed with cervical cancer.

2. HPV (Human papillomavirus) can easily be transmitted through physical contact or sexual intercourse. The infected person may not show any symptoms, or they may develop non-cancerous growths called warts, or the virus may cause abnormal cell division leading to cancer. HPV can cause various types of cancer, including cervical cancer, anal cancer, vaginal cancer, and throat cancer.

3. In the 40 years ago (1970-1980), it was believed that the main causes of cervical cancer were hormones, genetics, or the herpes simplex virus type 2. It was not until the German physician and virologist Harald zur Hausen that this belief was changed.

4. In 1984, Harald zur Hausen published a research paper that showed the detection of HPV in cervical cancer patients. This research also helped prove that HPV can cause cancer in both male and female reproductive organs. Although zur Hausen’s work was initially not widely accepted, he eventually received recognition for this discovery and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2008.

5. In 1991, Australian and Chinese researchers Ian Frazer and Jian Zhou conducted a study at the University of Queensland, studying proteins that resemble parts of the HPV virus (virus-like particles or VLPs). This research led to the development of a vaccine to prevent HPV infection.

6. Finally, the HPV vaccine (Gardasil from MSD) was accepted and administered to both girls and boys in 2006, starting in the United States and Australia before being widely used worldwide.

7. The initial HPV vaccine can cover four strains of the virus (6, 11, 16, 18), which are selected from the strains that frequently cause cancer. Statistics show that strains 16 and 18 are found in about 70% of cervical cancer patients and up to 90% of anal cancer patients.

8. In 2014, a new version of the HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) was introduced, which can cover nine strains. In addition to the original four strains, the pharmaceutical company added five more strains that contribute to the development of cervical cancer (31, 33, 45, 52, 58).

9. In addition to preventing HPV-related cancers, the HPV vaccine has been shown to prevent genital warts, which are also caused by HPV. Therefore, the vaccine can be used to prevent both types of diseases and improve the effectiveness of genital warts treatment.

10. Currently, the recommended age range for HPV vaccination starts at 9 years old and can be given up to 45 years old. This is an expansion from the previous recommendation of up to 26 years old. The vaccine is recommended for both females and males, and it is administered in three doses over a span of 6 months.

If you are interested or have any further questions about the HPV vaccine, you can contact Glove Clinic via Line Official (@gloveclinic), send a message to the Glove Clinic page, or call 092-414-9254.