Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of death for women\nworldwide, especially in developing countries. However, prevention is\nclear through the use of the HPV vaccine. UNICEF and WHO emphasise that\nthis vaccine can prevent up to 90% of cervical cancer cases if given\nfrom adolescence. The problem is that its implementation has not run\nsmoothly.<\/p>\n
Globally, HPV vaccine coverage is still far from the target. UNICEF\ndata shows that only a small portion of adolescent girls have received\nthis vaccine. In many low-income countries, national vaccination\nprogrammes have not yet been rolled out. This means that access\ndisparities remain the main barrier.<\/p>\n
Uneven vaccine distribution makes protection against cervical cancer\nunequal. Developed countries are beginning to see a decline in cases,\nwhile developing countries still face high mortality rates.<\/p>\n
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted many immunisation\nprogrammes, including HPV vaccination. Since this vaccine is generally\nadministered through schools, school closures directly impacted\nvaccination coverage.<\/p>\n
Several reports mention a significant decline since 2019. The impact\nis not immediately felt now, but it could emerge in the form of\nincreased cervical cancer cases in the future.<\/p>\n
One of the biggest challenges is not medical, but public perception.\nMany parents are still hesitant to give the HPV vaccine due to fears of\nside effects or beliefs in myths that it encourages early sexual\nactivity.<\/p>\n
However, global research has repeatedly proven the HPV vaccine to be\nsafe and effective. The problem is that misinformation spreads faster\nthan proper education.<\/p>\n
Not a few adolescents and parents do not yet understand what HPV is\nand how this virus can cause cancer. Without sufficient understanding,\nthe urgency of vaccination is not felt.<\/p>\n
In fact, the HPV vaccine is most effective if given before exposure\nto the virus, i.e., in adolescence. Delaying vaccination means opening\nup risks that could actually be prevented.<\/p>\n
In some regions, the HPV vaccine is still considered expensive or\ndifficult to access. Limited health facilities and suboptimal\ndistribution systems worsen this situation.<\/p>\n
The most vulnerable groups are often in areas with the most limited\naccess. This makes health inequalities even more evident.<\/p>\n
Efforts to protect the young generation from cervical cancer cannot\nrely solely on providing vaccines. Public education, strengthening\nhealth systems, and equitable distribution must go hand in hand.<\/p>\n
Without that, the HPV vaccine will remain a solution that has not\nbeen maximally utilised.<\/p>\n
Early detection is the main key in reducing mortality rates from\ncervical cancer. This is because high-risk HPV infections often show no\nsymptoms in the early stages.<\/p>\n
The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) will begin administering the Human\nPapillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to 11-year-old boys in 2027.<\/p>\n
Starting in 2027 or next year, the Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) will\nprovide the human papillomavirus vaccine or HPV vaccine for 11-year-old\nboys.<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/hpv-vaccine-proven-effective-why-are-so-many-still-unprotected-1774543877", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }