HPV INFECTIONS and cervical pre-cancer, which can develop into cancer, have decreased since 2006. At the same time the HPV vaccine was first introduced in the United States.
The data showed a reduction of up to 88% in adolescent girls and 81% in young adult women in infections with the types of HPV most associated with HPV cancer and genital warts.
Among vaccinated women, the rate of cervical pre-cancer due to the type of HPV most commonly associated with cancer has decreased by 40%.
The target of achieving 90% vaccination coverage for girls aged 15 years by 2030 is an important milestone in the fight against cervical cancer, a serious threat to women’s health.
According to an exclusive interview with Dr. Fitriyadi Kusuma, obstetrics and gynecology specialist, “In the context of HPV vaccination, we prioritize individuals who have not been exposed to HPV, especially those aged 9-13 years.”
Furthermore, he emphasized, it is important to note that women who are sexually active can still benefit from HPV vaccination until the age of 45 years.
Also read: The Most Optimal HPV Vaccine is Given When Preteens
Policy and Strategy for Implementing HPV Immunization
Policies and strategies for implementing HPV immunization are directed at providing equitable services. Every target child has the right to receive HPV immunization.
This program is implemented annually and involves various levels of implementation, from central to field implementation levels. Integration across programs and sectors is coordinated through the School/Madrasah Health Business Development Team (TP UKS/M).
The HPV immunization program is not only limited to children attending formal institutions. Children in various educational backgrounds, including those who do not attend school or have dropped out of school, are also targeted. Through posyandu, community health centers and children’s gathering places, this program seeks to cover all vulnerable populations.
Also read: Health workers play an important role in the success of the National HPV Immunization Program
It is hoped that in the short term, this program will be able to reduce the incidence of genital warts, and in the long term, it can reduce the prevalence of cervical cancer.
Through this program, the Ministry of Health is committed to reducing morbidity and mortality rates due to cervical cancer.
With a vaccine that is proven to be safe and effective, as well as full support from all parties, including health workers, it is hoped that the HPV immunization program will be successful in creating a healthy generation free from the threat of cervical cancer. (Z-3)
#HPV #Immunization #Important #Step #Generation #Free #Threat #Cervical #Cancer