Cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer among women globally, remains a critical yet often overlooked health issue. It is the leading cause of cancer death among women in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for 22% of all female cancers in the region. Among the 20 countries in the world with the highest burden of cervical cancer, 18 are in Africa. Despite being largely preventable through vaccination and regular screening, cervical cancer continues to claim countless lives, highlighting the urgent need for increased awareness and accessibility.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is one of the most significant advancements in public health, offering effective protection against cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. However, despite its proven efficacy, myths and misinformation often hinder its acceptance and use.
St. George’s University, School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies highlights the common myths about the HPV vaccine and the facts that dispel them:
HPV Vaccination is Only for Women
While cervical cancer predominantly affects women, HPV is also linked to other cancers, including throat cancers, which can affect individuals of all genders. Vaccinating boys as well as girls helps reduce the overall spread of HPV and provides protection against related health risks. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends vaccinating children aged 9-14 for maximum effectiveness before potential exposure to the virus.
HPV Vaccines Are Unsafe
Decades of research and millions of vaccinations worldwide have proven the HPV vaccine to be safe. The most common side effects, such as mild soreness at the injection site or low-grade fever, are temporary and far outweighed by the vaccine's benefits. Regulatory bodies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the WHO rigorously monitor the safety of HPV vaccines to ensure public trust.
Only Sexually Active Individuals Need the Vaccine
HPV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact but can also spread through non-sexual skin-to-skin contact, shared personal items, or infected surfaces. In rare cases, it may pass from a pregnant individual to their baby during childbirth. These varied transmission pathways highlight the importance of vaccination for everyone as the most effective way to prevent HPV-related diseases.
Regular Screening Eliminates the Need for Vaccination
While pap smears and HPV tests are critical for detecting early signs of cervical abnormalities, they do not prevent HPV infection. The HPV vaccine and regular screenings work hand-in-hand: the vaccine prevents many types of HPV infections, while screenings ensure any existing issues are caught early.
The Vaccine is Not Necessary if There’s No Family History of Cancer
Unlike some cancers that have a strong genetic component, cervical cancer is primarily caused by an HPV infection rather than inherited predisposition. HPV can be contracted through various means, making vaccination essential for everyone, regardless of family history.
Educating and Empowering Communities
Public health education is key to dispelling myths and increasing HPV vaccine uptake. The HPV vaccine represents a remarkable opportunity to prevent cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. As a global institution committed to advancing healthcare education and awareness, St. George’s University encourages proactive measures such as vaccination and regular screening to significantly reduce the burden of HPV-related illnesses. By educating future healthcare leaders, SGU strives to create a ripple effect, enabling graduates to champion awareness and prevention efforts worldwide.
For more information on the programs and tracks available through SGU School of Medicine, visit SGU’s website