HPV vaccine, commonly known as the “cervical cancer prevention vaccine”, targets the main cause of cervical cell changes that lead to cancer, which are HPV virus strains 16 and 18. But did you know that the HPV vaccine offers much more? It not only reduces the risk for the cervix but also helps prevent cancers in men. Let’s clearly understand how beneficial the HPV vaccine really is.
HPV: The virus that causes various cancers
HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, currently has over 200 identified strains. However, about 30-40 strains cause diseases in humans. Among these, 14 strains are considered high-risk or cancer-causing strains: 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, and 68. Especially strains 16 and 18 are the main causes of cancer! And it’s not just cervical cancer; HPV can also cause anal cancer, male reproductive organ cancers, as well as oral and throat cancers.
How does HPV cause cancer?
Research shows that over 80% of women have been or are currently infected with HPV, often without knowing it. This is because HPV is easily transmitted and usually shows no symptoms. The good news is that the body can naturally clear HPV infections in over 70% of cases within one year. However, if the immune system cannot eliminate the virus and HPV remains in the epithelial cells for more than 2 years, it can start causing cellular changes, leading to lesions and eventually cancer within about 10 years. This is why by the time symptoms appear, the cancer is often at an advanced stage.
Not just cancer, HPV also causes genital warts
Besides the 14 high-risk strains mentioned, there are two important strains, HPV 6 and 11, which cause genital warts, a sexually transmitted disease. The characteristic symptom is the appearance of pink or white growths with a rough, cauliflower-like surface that develop on the skin exposed to the virus. Some people may also experience itching or burning sensations in the affected area.
HPV vaccine: A vaccine everyone should get!
Since all these diseases originate from the HPV virus, getting the HPV vaccine is the best way to prevent them. Say goodbye to old misconceptions; the HPV vaccine is not only necessary for women but is a vaccine that “everyone should get”. It can be administered starting at age 9, and the earlier you start, the more effective the protection. Whether you have had sexual intercourse or not, are married, have children, have same-sex partners, or whatever your age, you can get vaccinated immediately. A single dose provides effective protection without the need for boosters, covering dangerous strains as well as sexually transmitted diseases like genital warts.
