Khaberni - The rumors surrounding cervical cancer create obstacles to prevention and treatment, as they include common misconceptions such as considering cervical cancer always fatal, contagious through casual contact, and that human papillomavirus infection lasts forever, according to a report published by the Times of India.
Therefore, breaking these beliefs and other social taboos related to cervical cancer will encourage women to take healthcare seriously, seek early detection through regular screenings, and get vaccinated against human papillomavirus. Collective awareness campaigns to promote accurate information and end the silence surrounding cervical cancer can reduce its impact and improve future outcomes for women worldwide.
7 common strains
The available nonavalent vaccines protect against 7 common high-risk human papillomavirus strains, and two low-risk strains which cause genital warts, thus providing protection ranging from 70% to 80% against cervical cancer by developing protective antibodies against the human papillomavirus.
Global recommendations
Experts affirm that everyone, regardless of their gender, should get vaccinated against human papillomavirus before initiating sexual activity. The global recommendations to vaccinate girls from ages 9 to 14 aims to reduce cervical cancer incidence by vaccinating individuals before they are exposed to high-risk types of human papillomavirus.
The vaccine is usually offered for free to eligible candidates through national immunization programs, ensuring it reaches marginalized communities. Adults aged 26 to 45 can also get vaccinated, which can provide them with some protection against human papillomavirus strains they have not yet been exposed to.
Up to age 45
Dr. Vandana Jain, a senior consultant and head of the department of female oncology at the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Center, states that vaccination against human papillomavirus up to age 45 represents an important preventive approach that can indeed reduce the burden of cervical cancer, as well as other associated cancers. The human papillomavirus vaccine is safe, and like any other vaccine, recipients may experience mild side effects shortly after the injection, but there are no long-term side effects.
Common side effects
Dr. Jain adds that some common side effects range from pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site, headaches, fatigue, nausea, rare serious allergic reactions, muscle or joint pain, dizziness, and fever.
However, with ongoing awareness, partnership in prevention, and collective education and awareness, the human papillomavirus vaccine can indeed be essential for women's health by providing protection, prevention, and empowerment.
