An Insight: HPV Vaccine for prevention of cervical cancer

Abstract

Cervical cancer is preventable because of immunization with human papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine. Uptake of this vaccine remains low in many countries, although the bivalent and quadrivalent HPV vaccines given as a three-dose schedule are effective in the prevention of precancerous lesions of the cervix in women. Simpler immunization schedules including both male and females are available, which might reduce barriers to vaccination. Currently, licensed two prophylactic vaccines against HPV are in use in most of the countries. It can be added to a comprehensive cervical cancer prevention strategy as a primary prevention tool. Currently available HPV vaccines have an excellent safety profile and can be co-administered with other vaccines. Completion of all doses at the specified intervals is recommended. At the same time HPV vaccination does not replace cervical cancer screening. The primary target population for HPV vaccination is girls before initiation of sexual activity.