Cancer cases are becoming highly common among various age groups. When it comes to women, breast cancer and cervical cancer are two of the most common types of cancer. Among these, cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in women worldwide.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 530000 new cases of cervical cancer are reported globally each year, accounting for nearly 7.5% of female cancer mortality. Therefore, it is very important to get immunized against the virus to tackle the risk of cervical cancer.
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Understanding cervical cancer
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Before understanding immunization, it is important to understand how cervical cancer occurs and affects the body. The cervix is that part of the female reproductive system that connects the uterus to the vagina. The lower part of the cervix lies within the vagina, while the upper part lies above the vagina. When cancer develops in the cervix, it usually originates in the area between the upper and lower part of the cervix. The majority of cervical cancers are caused by a sexually transmitted infection called human papillomavirus (HPV).
Role of HPV vaccine
If given before girls or women are exposed to the virus, this vaccination can prevent the majority of cases of cervical cancer. This vaccination is also effective in preventing vaginal and vulvar cancer. Furthermore, the vaccine can protect against genital warts, anal cancers, and mouth, throat, head, and neck cancers in both men and women. However, it is important to understand that the vaccine is less effective in preventing cervical cancer in women who have already been exposed to one or more HPV varieties. This is due to the fact that the vaccine protects against HPV before a person is exposed to it. The HPV vaccine does not treat existing HPV infections or diseases caused by HPV.
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When to administer HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is recommended between the ages of 11 and 12 for girls and boys. It can also be given at the age of 9 years, as the response to the vaccine is better at a younger age. It is also advised to get the HPV vaccination before engaging in sexual activity to ensure that the virus does not enter the body.It is recommended that a person receive at least three doses of the HPV vaccine between the ages of 15 and 26.Moreover, the gaps between these doses should be 0, 1–2, and 6 months.
At the same time, it is also recommended that pregnant women should avoid getting the HPV vaccine throughout their pregnancy. Also, if a person has symptoms of severe allergies, including an allergy to yeast or latex, they must avoid getting the vaccine.
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Side effects of HPV vaccine
In the majority of cases, the HPV vaccine is safe, and there can be mild effects. One of the most common side effects of HPV vaccines includes soreness, swelling, or redness at the injection area. Apart from that, the person can also experience dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
About the author: Dr. Snita Sinukumar is a Consultant in Surgical Oncologist at Manipal Hospital, Kharadi-Pune. All views/opinions expressed in the article are of the author.