Gynecologists are calling on parents to have their children vaccinated against HPV

2023-11-14 20:40:01

Few types of cancer can be prevented as reliably as those caused by human papilloma viruses (HPV). 90 percent of cervical cancer is also caused by viruses, which are also responsible for a number of other cancers. A vaccination offers almost 100 percent protection and, as of this year, is free up to your 21st birthday. Nevertheless, the vaccination rate is only 40 to 45 percent.

“The message is as clear as it is simple: There is a vaccination against cancer. Take advantage of the offer,” says health officer Christine Haberlander at the press conference on the occasion of this year’s information campaign. For ten years now, the “Petrol Ribbon Campaign” has been actively raising awareness in schools and calling for vaccinations. “Providing objective information on the subject of HPV vaccination and thus motivating people to get vaccinated has been our declared goal for ten years,” says Lukas Hefler, initiator of the campaign. The active ingredient has been well tested and used millions of times worldwide.

“We can prevent cancer with the HPV vaccination. Only in Austria is it free up to your 21st birthday.” – Lukas Hefler, gyneco-oncologist and initiator of the “Petrol Ribbon Campaign”

Human papilloma viruses are widespread worldwide. More than 80 percent of people become infected with HPV at some point. The viruses are mainly responsible for labia, penile and rectal cancer as well as cancers of the mouth and throat and cervical cancer. The vaccination should be administered before the first sexual contact, but also protects later. (lg)

On the occasion of the Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action 17. November the Ars Electronica lit in petrol.