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Published on: June 14, 2019
HPV Vaccines: today and in the Future
1Division of Adolescent Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94118, USA. moscickia@peds.ucsf.edu
Summary
Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes most cervical cancers globally. While prophylactic vaccines exist, their cost limits access; therapeutic vaccines are in development to treat existing infections and prevent HPV-related diseases.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a primary cause of cervical cancer, accounting for over 99% of cases.
- HPV-associated cancers represent a significant global health burden, disproportionately affecting developing nations lacking screening.
- Cervical precancer diagnosis and treatment pose substantial economic challenges even in developed countries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the natural history, oncogenesis, and immune interactions of HPV.
- To discuss the safety and efficacy of current prophylactic HPV vaccines.
- To explore novel prophylactic and therapeutic HPV vaccine strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of HPV natural history and oncogenesis.
- Analysis of host immune responses to HPV infection.
- Evaluation of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccine data.
Main Results:
- Prophylactic HPV vaccines are safe and effective but costly, hindering access in developing nations.
- Therapeutic HPV vaccines are under development to treat women with existing HPV infections.
- Novel vaccine delivery systems are being investigated for improved efficacy and accessibility.
Conclusions:
- HPV vaccination is crucial for cervical cancer prevention, necessitating strategies to overcome cost barriers.
- Development of therapeutic vaccines is essential for managing existing HPV infections and diseases.
- Continued research into innovative vaccine technologies is vital for global HPV control.
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