Around the world HPV vaccines are knocking out cervical cancer

Virtually all cervical cancers are caused by long-lasting infections with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) called “high risk” HPVs [1]. You can also develop other types of cancers from High risk HPVs infection including oral, anal and penile cancer [2]. 

Fortunately for us, HPV vaccination can prevent most cancers caused by HPVs, including cervical cancer [2,3]. Receiving the HPV vaccines before becoming sexually active reduces the risk of developing HPV cancers or precancerous lesions by more than 90% [4,5,6]. And contrary to some belief, the HPV vaccine DOES NOT encourage risky sexual behaviours such as earlier, more frequent, and unprotected sexual activities [11,12]. 

Since its approval in the early 2000s, long-term effectiveness studies have begun to show its positive impacts on young adults [1,8,13]. In the U.S., cervical cancer incidence alone went from being reduced by 33% to 65% reduction with the first cohort to receive the HPV vaccine [1]. Similar results were observed in Australia, which is on track to become the first country to eliminate cervical cancer by 2035 [13,14]. 

In Canada, we still have work to do. HPV vaccination rates remain below the levels needed to eliminate cervical cancer in most provinces and territories [15]. So share this good news with your circle and remind them why HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening* are so important. 

*Because vaccines don’t prevent all HPV-related cancers, regular screening and safer sex are still important [4].