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Cervical cancer vaccines

 

“HPV is a very common virus. The virus lives on the skin and can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. HPV vaccination can be a cost-effective strategy in the lowering of cervical cancer risk among women in South Africa.” 

This is an excerpt from an open letter from the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA)  detailing the importance of the HPV vaccination. 

Cervical cancer is a frightening reality for women. It is a cancer that affects the cervix (entrance of the womb). In South Africa, cervical cancer is the second most common type of cancer amongst women, which means that we need to take hasty action to prevent and treat this cancer as early as possible. 

 

How vaccines help

 

The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a chief culprit in cervical cancer. While there are hundreds of strains of the virus, not all cause cancer. However, as the virus lives on your skin, it can be easily transmitted through skin-to-skin and sexual contact – meaning that condoms won’t fully protect you from it. 

The HPV vaccine was actually created in 1986 as a cancer prevention method, but was initially rejected by pharmaceutical companies. Twenty years later, it is available and a necessary part of cervical cancer prevention. 

Similar to a flu vaccine, the HPV vaccine triggers the body to create antibodies. Antibodies bind or attach to the virus and prevent it from infecting cells. 

CANSA recommends that girls from ages 9-12 receive the HPV vaccine. It’s provided free of charge and is available in all government schools. “Parents and guardians who make it possible for their girl child to be vaccinated with the HPV vaccine are making sure that their girl child’s risk is reduced against HPV infection and the possibility of getting cervical cancer.” It's ideal for girls to receive the vaccine before they have sexual contact and are exposed to HPV.

 

Symptoms of cervical cancer

Some common symptoms include:

 

  • Bleeding/spotting in between periods
  • Heavy and painful menstrual bleeding
  • Increased vaginal discharge
  • Pain during sex
  • Persistent pelvic and back pain
  • Bleeding after menopause

 

The good news

 

It is a myth that you will develop cervical cancer if you have HPV. Remember, there are more than 100 strains of the virus – some are high risk for cervical cancer, some not. Still, this doesn’t mean that you should take risks with your health. 

Treatment for cervical cancer includes radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, immunotherapy and targeted therapy. The treatment depends mainly on the stage of the cancer. 

This is why it’s important to ensure you get regular check-ups and Pap smears when it’s time. A Pap smear helps to detect abnormal cells. Remember, the best treatment for any health problem is always prevention. 

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Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.