Understanding HPV Vaccination: Safeguarding Health Together

Amayra is a fitness enthusiast in her mid-thirties. She balanced her job with a workout routine and a diet. She never missed her annual check-up. But life always has a twist in store.  When she sat in the waiting room flipping through a magazine, during regular annual checkup,  she couldn’t have imagined life-changing news that awaited her. 

She got a call from her doctor about the pap smear test and recommended further investigation. She sensed a concern, words like “biopsy” and “HPV” swirled around her. Further test results confirmed her worst fears—she had cervical cancer. It was a journey of fear and hope for her. “How could this happen to me?” "Why me?" she wondered as she had always been careful about her health. The doctor explained that it often begins as a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. For most women, such infections resolve on their own, but in some cases, it may lead to cancer. The doctor started a treatment. 

During her recovery, she met other women battling with cervical cancer. 

Lakshmi lives in Rajokri village, about 45 km from Delhi. She runs her household by selling milk and is the sole breadwinner in her family. She was experiencing constant pain and itching in her pelvic area but was not able to consult a doctor due to lack of medical facilities in her village [1]. 

CAPED (Cancer Awareness Prevention and Early Detection) Trust had arranged a screening camp which was free of cost. Local members from the community went door-to-door explaining the importance of an early detection test for cervical cancer. Further investigations were recommended for Lakshmi. Because of screening and early treatment, she has recovered and now urges women not to be ashamed of health issues. Talk about it with someone before it’s too late. 

Sangeeta Gupta, a publisher, was shocked when diagnosed with cervical cancer [2]. She has successfully fought her battle with cervical cancer. It was an emotionally exhausting experience for her. A positive approach and family support helped her to bounce back. She has spoken openly about her cancer with others though there is social stigma attached to cervical cancer. She started the journey of educating women about screening tests and the HPV vaccine. 

The stories of survivors may vary but they all share resilience and hope. 

Cervical cancer remains a significant public health issue worldwide[3]. Current estimates indicate that every year 123907 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 77348 die from the disease. [4] It is necessary to spread awareness of regular screenings, and life-saving potential of the HPV vaccine. So I thought of sharing my discussion with Dr. Vaidehi Lomte, a gynecologist to know more about cervical cancer, screening and vaccination. 

What is Cervical Cancer? 

Cervical cancer originates in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It typically develops over several years, starting with pre-cancerous changes known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). If left untreated, these abnormal cells can progress to invasive cancer. 

What are Causes and Risk Factors? 

The primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus transmitted through sexual contact. Although most HPV infections resolve on their own, chronic infection with high-risk strains can lead to cervical cancer. 

Key risk factors include- 

• HPV Infection: The most significant risk factor
• Smoking: Doubles the risk of cervical cancer. 
• Immunosuppression: Weakened immune system, such as in HIV-infected individuals.
• Long-term use of oral contraceptives: Linked to a higher risk of cervical cancer. 
• Multiple full-term pregnancies: Associated with an increased risk. 
• Family history: Genetics can play a role in susceptibility.

What are the Symptoms? 

In its early stages, cervical cancer often does not present noticeable symptoms. 

As the disease progresses, symptoms may include-

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding (post-coital, intermenstrual, or postmenopausal) 
• Unusual vaginal discharge 
• Pelvic pain Pain during intercourse 

These symptoms can be caused by other conditions, but it is crucial to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Is it possible to prevent it? 

Preventing cervical cancer involves multiple strategies like screening, vaccination etc. 

• HPV Vaccination: HPV Vaccines protect against the most common cancer-causing HPV strains. The vaccine is most effective when administered before individuals become sexually active. 
• Regular Screening: Pap smears and HPV tests can detect precancerous changes in cervical cells. Early detection through screening is essential for successful Cervical cancer is largely preventable and, when detected early, highly treatable. Public health efforts focusing on vaccination, regular screening, and 
• Education about safe sexual practices and smoking cessation are crucial in reducing the incidence and mortality rates of this disease. 

By increasing awareness and access to preventive measures, we can ensure better health outcomes for women worldwide. 

References-

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8vLfDqq594
2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpDk1ONdZS8
3. https://www.bbc.com/news/health-44494377
4. https://hpvcentre.net/statistics/reports/IND.pdf?t=1713590454130
5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2x278gBbpok 
6. https://togetherforhealth.org/india-faces-of-hope/

Dr. Snehal Kamalapur