Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-linked deaths among Indian women, even though it is preventable. In fact, India bears one-fifth of the global cervical cancer burden. This is where the HPV vaccine is so critical, since it protects against the human papillomavirus, the main cause of cervical cancer.

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

The vaccine is best taken early to protect against cervical cancer. The recommended age groups are:

Girls and boys aged 9 to 14 years: Two doses, 6 to 12 months apart.
Girls/women and boys/men aged 15 to 25 years: Three doses (0, 2, 6 months).
Adults aged 27 to 45 years: After consultation with a doctor.

While the ideal vaccination age is 11 to 12 years, catch-up vaccination is recommended for all females through age 26 who are not fully vaccinated.

Common myths vs facts about HPV vaccine

Myth:

Pap smears are also effective, hence vaccination not required.

Fact:

The only screening available is for cervical cancer, not other cancers. Five other cancers (affecting both men and women) are caused by HPV. Screening is a secondary prevention method to detect precancerous lesions or cancer early. HPV vaccination is effective in the primary prevention of the disease.

Myth:

HPV vaccines are new and there are no safety and efficacy data on long-term side-effects.

Fact:

The possible side-effects are well documented and vaccine safety has been confirmed by WHO and many other authorities.

Myth:

HPV vaccination can cause ovarian failure.

Fact:

No connection between HPV vaccination and ovarian failure has been established.

Myth:

Vaccines cause autoimmune diseases, neurological issues and death.

Fact:

The incidence of autoimmune or neurological conditions and death is the same in HPV-vaccinated and unvaccinated populations.

Myth:

Children are not sexually active and hence, there’s no need to vaccinate them early.

Fact:

The earlier you vaccinate, the better the immune response and strength of prevention. Fewer doses are needed when children are vaccinated under the age of 15 years.

Myth:

Boys and men don’t get cervical cancer. So, they don’t need the vaccine.

Fact:

HPV is linked to at least five malignancies apart from cervical cancer: vulvar, vaginal, anal, penile and oropharyngeal cancers. Gender-neutral vaccination provides the best protection for all individuals regardless of their gender and future sexual orientation.

Myth:

After the first sexual intercourse, the vaccine does not work any longer.

Fact:

In clinical trials, most young women were sexually active and the level of protection was over 90%. Even after treatment for HPV-related disease, the vaccine potentially reduces the risk of subsequent disease.

Myth:

Natural HPV infection already creates a protective antibody response. So, there is no need for vaccination.

Fact:

Antibody response after natural HPV infection is low. The vaccine provides a strong immune response and gives robust protection against disease.

Myth:

HPV vaccination increases risky sexual behaviour and promiscuity.

Fact:

There is no evidence that HPV vaccination increases promiscuity or promotes risky sexual behaviour.