The HPV virus is widespread. There are around 100 types of this virus. Some cause mild skin lesions. The most common types are responsible for the development of cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva and larynx, as well as warts, including genital warts. For discovering the link between HPV and the development of cervical cancer, German scientist Harald zur Hausen received the 2008 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. This discovery made it possible to develop a vaccine that reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer.
What is HPV and how can you become infected with it?
HPV is also known as the human papillomavirus. It can be divided into two groups based on oncological risk. Low-risk types include, above all, HPV types that cause warts. HPV types 6, 11, 42, 43 and 44 cause mild lesions in the genital area, such as genital warts, which may appear within several months after contact with an infected person. High-risk, or oncogenic, types include most notably HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for 70% of cervical cancer cases. Infection with these types of the virus can lead to uncontrolled cell division in the cervical epithelium, which may result in cervical cancer.
What can be done to protect yourself from infection with the virus?
HPV vaccinations have been available and used worldwide since 2006. Scientific studies have demonstrated their high effectiveness and safety, and international scientific societies recommend vaccinating girls. The Polish Gynecological Society and the Polish Pediatric Society recommend vaccination against HPV. Girls who have not yet started sexual activity will benefit most from vaccination. To produce an adequate level of antibodies, the vaccine must be administered in three doses.
Vaccinations are routinely administered in Europe, the United States and Australia. In most European Union countries, vaccinations are centrally funded and are highly popular. Poles still cannot afford to finance vaccinations throughout the country, so it is worth taking advantage of vaccinations funded by local authorities.
Vaccination against HPV is recommended in Poland’s immunisation schedule. However, the cost of such vaccination is approximately PLN 1,500. For many parents, this is a barrier. So if you hear about a campaign offering free HPV vaccinations in your town, take advantage of it!