What you need to know about the HPV vaccine

Lo que necesitas saber sobre la vacuna contra el VPH

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a key factor in the development of cervical cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute in Colombia, there are more than 200 types of HPV, which are classified into low-risk groups, which can cause benign lesions such as genital warts or condylomas, and high-risk groups, which are associated with the development of precancerous lesions.

Therefore, it is crucial that children receive their HPV vaccines on time and according to the complete vaccination schedule, as these vaccines allow the immune system to more effectively recognize HPV strains, protecting them against infection.

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 270 million doses of the HPV vaccine have been administered worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) and various national and international scientific societies endorse this vaccine because it is the product of extensive and rigorous research that guarantees its effectiveness.

According to Dr. Angelina Álvarez, a Radiation Oncology Specialist and coordinator of the Cancer Institute at Serena del Mar Hospital, the HPV vaccine is highly effective and safe. Therefore, it is necessary to dispel some myths among the population in order to promote its administration, especially to girls and boys between the ages of 9 and 14.

It is important to note that, like all vaccines and medications, this vaccine can cause certain reactions or side effects, such as pain, redness in the arm where it is administered, fever, and/or dizziness. Therefore, it is recommended that those vaccinated be monitored for at least 15 minutes to detect any adverse effects.

Vaccination in Colombia

Since July 15, 2024, the Colombian Ministry of Health and Social Protection has extended the age range for HPV vaccination to children aged 10 to 14. With this updated vaccination schedule, boys aged 9 to 14 and girls aged 9 to 17 will be able to receive the corresponding doses and protect themselves against the different types of HPV.

The National Government's health agency maintains that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is also the cause of other types of cancer, such as penile, anal, and oropharyngeal cancer, generating high morbidity and mortality in women and becoming a global public health priority. According to GLOBOCAN, in 2022 in Colombia, 2,435 women died from cervical cancer, and 4,570 new cases were identified.