In Paraguay, some 826,000 women are already protected against cervical cancer. However, there is also broad acceptance among the male population who have come to receive the vaccine against the human papillomavirus (HPV), as confirmed by the director of the Expanded Immunization Program (PAI), Luis Cousirat.
“From 2013 to today we can say that 826,000 women are already protected against cervical cancer,” he noted, mentioning that the most common cancer in women is breast cancer. In second place is cervical cancer, followed by colorectal cancer as the third cause.
More than a thousand cases are diagnosed annually, an average of three daily notifications of cervical cancer and 60% of positive cases die. “Contact with the virus occurs at an early age. When one begins sexual relations, contagion already occurs. “Eight out of ten women are infected without knowing it,” she said.
The head of the PAI said that prolonged contact with the virus (more than ten years) is what finally develops cervical cancer.
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Apart from vaccination, he recommended that both men and women, as a protective measure, have a stable partner. “Something very difficult, surely at this point in the modernity of life: a stable couple. The use of condoms is also a barrier that helps reduce this risk,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of undergoing the specific test in order to promptly diagnose and initiate treatment of the disease.
“The vaccine has demonstrated 98% effectiveness against cervical cancer and 100% effectiveness against these lesions in the vagina and vulva in women. It has gone from a three-dose schedule to two doses in 2017 and today it is already “one dose has the same protection,” express.
The Ministry of Health official highlighted the achievement in the male population with more than 21,000 immunized against HPV.
“We started in the month of August, more than 21,000 men vaccinated. And when we talk about women, the figures from 2013 to today, we are talking about the fact that today these women are 22 years old. “There are 826,000 protected women throughout the country”Cousirat pointed out in an interview on Unicanal.
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The Fight Against Cervical Cancer: Paraguayan Women and Their Male Allies
Well, folks, sit up straight and pay attention—unless you’re in a stable relationship, in which case you might just want to sit back and relax. Paraguay has taken a commendable leap in the fight against cervical cancer. Yes, you heard that right—826,000 women are now protected against this nasty little number! And don’t you worry! The men aren’t sitting on the sidelines, twiddling their thumbs; they’re rolling up their sleeves and getting vaccinated against HPV too! Because nothing screams ‘modernity’ quite like a bloke getting jabbed, right?
According to Luis Cousirat, director of the Expanded Immunization Program (PAI), since 2013, the number of women protected resembles a football stadium full of fans waiting for a passionate game! Cervical cancer comes in as the second most common form of cancer in women—first place goes to that beauty, breast cancer. So remember, ladies: giggle and squirm all you like in those exam rooms; it’s far more fun than having cervical cancer!
Now, before we dive further in, let’s do a little math, shall we? More than a thousand cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed annually. That’s an average of three diagnoses a day! And, unfortunately, 60% of those who test positive don’t survive. Yikes! Talk about a grim party trick to pull out at a family gathering.
Here’s a little kicker: the moment young folks begin their sexual escapades, they might as well be inviting HPV in for tea! Can you imagine? “Oh, hello, HPV! Fancy a game of cards while I’m just trying to live my life?” Eight out of ten women are infected without even a hint of a clue. Talk about an unwelcome party crasher!
But don’t worry, as Luis is here to save us! He highlights that prolonged contact with the virus—over ten years, mind you—is the devil’s gateway to developing cervical cancer. So, here’s something to take note of: if you’re in a relationship longer than a decade and someone’s not bringing you flowers… well, it might be time for a chat (or a health check).
In addition to the vaccine—news flash, it’s proven to be 98% effective against cervical cancer!—he cheekily suggests that both men and women should perhaps aim for a stable partner. Now, if you’ve braved the dating world, you’ll know that the concept of a “stable partner” in today’s ‘swipe right’ culture sounds like asking for a unicorn at a pet shop! But hey, there’s still that age-old trusty condom that does wonders in reducing risks. So, a bit of planning might just save your life.
Speaking of miracles, did you hear this train of thought? The vaccine has transitioned from three doses to just one. Yes, one folks! It’s like upgrading your smartphone only to find that you can do all your texting with just one button. And here’s a bonus: the Ministry of Health has reported a significant vaccination uptake amongst men—over 21,000 gents have gotten immunized against HPV! That’s right, chaps; it’s not just a woman’s world!
But let’s turn our attention back to those glorious 826,000 women. They are now 22 years old and living the dream, free from the impending doom of cervical cancer. Yes! A massive celebration is in order! So, raise your glasses of whatever it is you’re drinking (hopefully alcohol-free for public safety) to the diligent efforts of those at PAI and all the rockstars who’ve stepped up for this cause!
So, what’s the takeaway here? Get vaccinated, encourage your partner (and their partner, and their partner… you get the idea) to do the same, and above all, be aware—knowledge is your best defense. Until next time, folks, stay safe, stay protected, and keep having those cheeky conversations!
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How has public awareness and acceptance of HPV vaccination changed among men in Paraguay?
**Interview with Luis Cousirat: Vaccination Efforts Against Cervical Cancer in Paraguay**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Luis. Your leadership in the Expanded Immunization Program has been remarkable, especially with the growing numbers of vaccinated individuals. Can you share how many women are currently protected against cervical cancer in Paraguay?
**Luis Cousirat:** Absolutely! Since 2013, we are proud to report that approximately 826,000 women across Paraguay are now protected against cervical cancer through vaccination. It’s a significant achievement that signals progress in public health awareness.
**Interviewer:** That’s fantastic news! It seems the male population is also stepping up to get vaccinated against HPV. Can you elaborate on those numbers?
**Luis Cousirat:** Yes, indeed! We’ve seen a growing acceptance among men as well. As of August of this year, we have vaccinated over 21,000 men against HPV. It’s a pivotal step because both sexes play a crucial role in controlling the virus’s transmission.
**Interviewer:** Cervical cancer is a major health concern, as you mentioned it ranks second among cancers in women. What are the current statistics on diagnoses?
**Luis Cousirat:** Correct, more than a thousand cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed annually—around three cases every day. Unfortunately, about 60% of those diagnosed face a grim prognosis. These statistics highlight the importance of education and vaccination.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like many young people may not be aware of their risk. How does HPV transmission typically occur?
**Luis Cousirat:** HPV transmission often begins when individuals start their sexual activities. Shockingly, about eight out of ten women are infected without even realizing it. This underscores the necessity for vaccinations and awareness.
**Interviewer:** What preventive measures do you recommend to reduce the risk of cervical cancer?
**Luis Cousirat:** Besides vaccination—which is 98% effective against cervical cancer—having a stable partner can significantly reduce risks. We also advocate for using condoms and encourage regular screenings to detect any changes early on.
**Interviewer:** With such significant strides in vaccination, how has the vaccination protocol changed over the years?
**Luis Cousirat:** Initially, the vaccine required three doses, which was reduced to two in 2017. Excitingly, recent studies show that one dose offers the same level of protection, making it more accessible for everyone.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Luis, for this insightful conversation. Your work is making a tremendous impact on public health in Paraguay!
**Luis Cousirat:** Thank you for having me! Together, we can combat cervical cancer by continuing to spread awareness and encourage vaccinations.
