Preventing Cervical Cancer Through HPV Vaccination: A Review Article

Abstract

Cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most common malignant disease among women worldwide and is one of the leading causes of death among women of reproductive age in developing countries. Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted infection, is associated with 95% of cervical cancer cases. While HPV infection is typically self-limiting, it can cause pre-malignant oral-anal lesions in both men and women that may progress to malignancy. HPV vaccination has emerged as a crucial preventive measure against HPV infection and its associated complications, including oral, anal, and cervical cancers, as well as genital warts. Studies have demonstrated that HPV vaccines exhibit high efficacy and immunogenicity, producing acceptable immune responses. The Gardasil vaccine has shown remarkable effectiveness, providing up to 90% protection against cervical cancer. Moreover, the newer nine-valent vaccine demonstrates even greater efficacy, offering up to 97% protection against high-grade malignant cervical and vulvar cancers. Enhanced public awareness about HPV's prevalence, transmission routes, pathogenesis, and treatment options, coupled with widespread vaccination programs, is crucial for improved disease control. These efforts collectively contribute to managing the virus's consequences and potentially eradicating cervical cancer in the coming decades. This study aims to investigate the vital role of vaccination in preventing both HPV infection and cervical cancer, ultimately working toward reducing the global burden of this significant public health concern.