Cervical cancer appears to be one of the most preventable cancers for women. According to the researches, one way that one can help prevent the disease is by vaccinating against it in children at an early age. This is the primary goal of the HPV vaccination program that was created by the U.S. government and subsequently supported by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Dr. Sushmita Mukherjee, one of the best gynecologists in Indore, says that this program has greatly reduced the incidence of the disease and is now considered to be among the best programs in the world.
What is HPV?
HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus. A papillomavirus is a virus that usually infects the epithelial cells of your skin and mucous membranes. There are more than one hundred different types of papillomaviruses but only a few of them lead to cervical cancer. HPV is spread through sexual contact and skin-to-skin contact. It can infect the genital area of both males and females, including the anal area and the mouth or throat.
What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer refers to the most common cancer in women that starts from the cells of the cervix (also known as the womb). It is most prevalent in women from their late teens and early twenties. According to studies, about half of women will develop cervical cancer in their lifetime. While the rate is falling in developed countries, it is still rising in developing nations.
What is the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is a vaccine that should be administered to all girls out there. This vaccine can protect against a virus that can cause cervical cancer. The National Cancer Institute began distributing the vaccine in 2006 to girls as young as 11, and it is currently given to all girls before they reach 18.
When HPV Vaccine Should It Be Given?
The HPV vaccine was first developed in 2006, with the CDC recommending that it be given to all girls aged 11-12 years (2 doses), and after 15 years, 3 doses.
How Effective Is The HPV Vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is 99% effective at preventing cervical cancer in women. It's important to vaccinate your girls before they become sexually active because then they will be protected from getting HPV, which is the leading cause of cervical cancer.
Final Words:
Females can have cervical cancer. Though it may not be common, it is possible for girls to contract this disease and is considered a health risk. Vaccinating girls now can help protect them from the disease in the future.
