HPV is very widespread. There are approximately 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 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2008. This discovery made it possible to develop a vaccine that reduces the risk of cervical cancer.
What is HPV and how can you become infected?
HPV is otherwise known as the human papillomavirus and can be divided into two groups according to oncological risk. Low-risk types comprise primarily HPV types that cause warts. HPV types 6, 11, 42, 43 and 44 cause benign lesions in the genital area, such as genital warts, which may appear several months after contact with an infected person.
High-risk, or oncogenic, types include primarily HPV 16 and 18, which are responsible for 70% of cervical cancer cases. Infection with these types of the virus may lead to uncontrolled cell division in the cervical epithelium, which can 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 research has demonstrated their high effectiveness and safety, and scientific societies around the world recommend vaccinating girls. The Polish Society of Gynecologists and Obstetricians and the Polish Pediatric Society recommend HPV vaccination. Girls who have not yet begun 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 attract great interest. Polish women still cannot afford to fund vaccinations nationwide, so it is worth taking advantage of vaccinations financed by local governments.
HPV vaccination is recommended in Poland’s preventive vaccination 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 or city—take advantage of it!
(commissioned information)