Importance of HPV Vaccine for Cancer Prevention

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. If the spread is not controlled, it can result in death. Cancer is caused due to various reasons like genetics, lifestyle choices, environmental factors and infections. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and accounted for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020. Some common cancers seen globally are lung cancer, breast cancer, colon or rectal cancer and prostate cancer. At Galaxy Care Hospital, the Best Cancer Hospital in Pune, we are here to introduce you to the HPV Vaccine that can help you prevent many types of cancer. Let’s begin!

Understanding HPV

The Human Papillomavirus or HPV is a very common virus that spreads through intimate skin-to-skin or sexual contact. There are over 100 types of HPV of which 14 types are cancer-causing or ‘high-risk’ types. HPV infection is the main cause of cervical and other anogenital cancers. According to the National Cancer Institute, HPV infection leads to over 90% of all cervical cancers.

HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine aims to protect against infection with HPV types 16 and 18 which together cause about 70% of cervical cancers as well as some vulvar, vaginal cancers and anal cancers. The vaccine also protects against HPV types 6 and 11 which cause about 90% of genital warts.

There are currently three HPV vaccines available globally: Cervarix, Gardasil and Gardasil 9. These vaccines provide protection by creating antibodies against the types of HPV covered in the vaccines. The Best Oncologist in Pune will be able to guide you make the vaccination choice. The ideal time to get vaccinated is before any exposure to HPV through sexual contact as the vaccine works best in those who have not been infected with any HPV type yet. 

Prevention By HPV Vaccine

• The HPV vaccine can prevent cancer of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus and oropharynx (back of the throat) in both men and women. 
• Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in Indian women. Cervical cancer can be prevented by getting the HPV vaccine.
•  Anal cancer is relatively rare but rates are increasing, especially among men who have sex with men. Since the HPV vaccine protects against HPV 16 and 18, it can prevent anal cancers as well. 
• Oropharyngeal cancers in the back of the throat area including the base of the tongue and tonsils have significantly increased in men over the past few decades. As HPV 16 is a major cause of oropharyngeal cancers, the HPV vaccine has the potential to reduce these cancers in the long run. 
• Vulvar and vaginal cancers are not very common but the HPV vaccine prevents these cancers as well. 
• Penile cancers in men are again not very common cancers but are caused due to HPV infection. HPV vaccination has the potential to reduce penile cancers.

Can Men Take An HPV Vaccine?

Yes, both men and women can take the HPV vaccine as it can protect them from HPV infection and subsequent HPV-related cancers including penile, anal and oropharyngeal cancers in men. The HPV vaccine is recommended for all boys and girls between 9 to 14 years of age. 

Two doses of the HPV vaccine are required, with 6-12 months between each dose. Some individuals may need 3 doses depending on their age at the time of the initial dose. The ideal age for vaccination is before any sexual debut or exposure. However, the HPV vaccine can provide benefits even if given until 45 years of age as it can protect against new HPV infections. If you have any doubts, feel free to consult the Best Cancer Specialist in Pune to learn more about the HPV Vaccine.

Side Effects of HPV Vaccine

Some possible side effects reported with the HPV vaccine include pain, swelling or redness at the injection site which usually resolves within a few days. Fever, nausea or headaches have also been reported in some individuals but are usually mild. Severe allergic reactions are rare with this vaccine. No evidence of long-term side effects on fertility, pregnancy or menstrual cycle has been found with the HPV vaccine to date. Overall, the HPV vaccine has an excellent safety record globally according to studies. 

Say Yes To HPV Vaccine

In conclusion, the HPV vaccine is crucial for preventing HPV infection and subsequent cancers like cervical, vulvar, vaginal, anal, penile and oropharyngeal cancers. It is advisable to consult the Best Oncologist in Pune at Galaxy Care Hospital in Pune regarding HPV vaccination. As the Best Cancer Hospital in Pune, we offer advanced treatment options like robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery along with expert opinions on cancer screening and prevention. Our oncologists can clear all doubts regarding HPV vaccine effectiveness, timing and safety, especially for high-risk individuals. Getting vaccinated in the recommended age group provides maximum protection from HPV infections and related cancers later in life. Feel free to consult us and clear your doubts before taking the HPV vaccine. Book your appointment today!