Human Papillomavirus Prevention by Vaccination: A Review Article

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. It is caused by infection due to human papillomavirus. There are some screening tests available for its detection. Early detection can increase the chances of survival. The HPV vaccine offers a long-lasting, reliable defence against the HPV infection that is most frequently linked to cancer. HPV 16 and HPV18 are high-risk cancer-causing strains. It is transmitted most commonly through the sexual route. There are horizontal and vertical modes of transmission of the infection present. Vaccines have been introduced to prevent cervical cancer in the market. Awareness and knowledge of vaccines are lacking in people. Vaccine awareness can be made in schools, colleges or among their parents. Social media is vital in spreading knowledge faster in today's generation. The number of precancers of the cervix in young women has been reduced due to HPV vaccination. A practical and safe method to prevent HPV is early vaccination. Vaccines provide cell-mediated immunity. It is more helpful if the vaccine is taken at a younger age. It can only prevent, not treat, cervical cancer. General practitioners are essential in informing people of the vaccine and its potential benefits. There are many ongoing types of research going on in this field so that people can get relevant information. The objective of this review is to provide information about the research till now, knowledge among people, the need for vaccines, effects and safety of vaccination. Research is going around the world to prevent cancer, which can decrease the worldwide burden of deaths due to cancer. Among all types of cancer, vaccines are available only for preventing cervical cancer, which has a high prevention rate.