A recent study in Scotland has confirmed that the HPV vaccine provides comprehensive protection against various cancers associated with HPV, including cervical cancer. Since 2008, women and men in the country have had the opportunity to receive the HPV vaccine free of charge through the national vaccination program.
According to a BBC report, a recent study has shown that young women who have received the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine have not developed cases of cervical cancer.
HPV, a sexually transmitted infection, is responsible for nearly all cases of cervical cancer, making it the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide.
The research, which investigated the impact of the HPV vaccine on cervical cancer, analyzed data collected from August 31, 2023. The findings were published on January 22, 2024, in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
The study, conducted in collaboration with the Scottish Public Health Service (PHS), Strathclyde, and Edinburgh Universities, included all eligible Scottish women in the cervical cancer screening program.
“It is possible to make cervical cancer a rare disease”
Dr Kirsty Roy, Consultant in Health Protection, PHS, and co-author of this encouraging study said:
“This study involves every woman in Scotland who is eligible for the cervical cancer screening programme and demonstrates the impact of the HPV vaccine in preventing cervical cancer. It shows how effective the HPV vaccine is as there have been no cervical cancer cases to date in fully vaccinated women who were given their first dose at age 12-13 years.
“Vaccination against HPV is shown to be effective in preventing cervical cancer, and along with regular screening for early detection and treatment, it is possible to make cervical cancer a rare disease.”
Cervical cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women aged 25 to 35 in Scotland. Approximately 300 women in the country are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually. Cervical cancer screening is available to all women aged 25 to 64.
The HPV vaccine is administered as part of routine school-based programs for students in Scotland. The vaccination initiative, launched in 2008, has expanded to include men starting this year.
The cost of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in Turkey will approach the minimum wage with the expected price increase next week, despite the Health Minister’s promise to offer the cancer-preventing vaccine for free.
Sources: BBC, Public Health Scotland