Abstract

HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS AND HPV VACCINE

Sandhya Anasaheb Mule*, Dr. Pratiksha Anarase, Sanket Dighe, Nikita Ruchake, Pallavi Kekan, Komal Barwe, Snehal Kanthale

ABSTRACT

Cervical cancer, the most common cancer affecting women in developing countries, is caused by persistent infection with “high-risk” genotypes of human papillomaviruses (HPV). The most common oncogenic HPV genotypes are 16 and 18, causing approximately 70% of all cervical cancers. Types 6 and 11 do not contribute to the incidence of high-grade dysplasias (precancerous lesions) or cervical cancer, but do cause laryngeal papillomas and most genital warts. HPV is highly transmissible, with peak incidence soon after the onset of sexual activity. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines, which were introduced in many countries in the past decade, have shown promising results in decreasing HPV infection and related diseases, such as warts and precancerous lesions. In this review, we present the updated information about current HPV vaccines, focusing on vaccine coverage and efficacy. In addition, pan-gender vaccination and current clinical trials are also discussed. Currently, more efforts should be put into increasing the vaccine’s coverage, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Provision of education on HPV and vaccination is one of the most important methods to achieve this. Vaccines that target HPV types not included in current vaccines are the next stage in vaccine development. In the Future, all HPV-related cancers, such as head and neck cancer, and anal cancer, should be tracked and Evaluated, especially in countries that have introduced pan-gender vaccination programs. Therapeutic Vaccines, in combination with other cancer treatments, should continue to be investigated.

Keywords: Human papillomavirus; vaccine; Cervarix; Gardasil; Gardasil.