Not many of us know that the risk of some cancer types can be reduced with vaccination. This may not sound very conventional to us but the reality is that some viruses have been linked to cancer, for example, Hepatitis B (Liver cancer) and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV – cervical cancer).
There are vaccines which have proved very effective – and in fact the only prevention – against these viruses thus a shield against cancers of these types.
WHICH ARE THESE VACCINES?
Currently, the following vaccines are available in Pakistan:
- Cervarix: This provides protection against the risk of valvular, cervical, anal and vaginal cancers in females and genital warts in males. The vaccine is for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) which is a sexually transmitted virus and occurs as a result of unprotected sexual intercourse.
- Interix: This is a vaccine for Hepatitis B virus – a virus that can increase the risk of liver cancer.
ALL ABOUT HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS (HPV)?
HPV is a sexually transmitted disease and is possible in most sexually active men and women. While it can be of no consequence at times, HPV can lead to cancer and genital warts. These warts are small growth on the skin around the genitals and found around vagina, vulva, penis, urethra, and anus.
How does it spread?
- Unprotected sexual intercourse with a virus carrier
- The carrier may or may not have any symptoms of the virus and is thus passed along unknowingly
How to prevent it?
- Have safe and protected sex
- Be properly vaccinated
The vaccine for HPV is available in Pakistan under the brand Cervarix (by GlaxoSmithKline). This is administered to girls aged 9-14 or as per doctor’s prescription.
