The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the cause of one in 10 cases of cancer in women globally. And, in Ecuador, cervical cancer, caused by this virus, ranks tenth in causes of female mortality. This is detailed in a study carried out in 2021 by the Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INEC), which also points out that, in the same period, 881 women died in the country from this type of cancer.
HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that contains DNA that especially infects the oral and genital mucosa, explains Dr. Andrea Cevallos, a gynecologist and obstetrician. That is why it is also the cause of cancer in other genital organs, such as: cervix, vagina, vulva and anus; and even to the throat. In addition, types 6 and 11 of this virus cause more than 90% of anogenital warts, as stated by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
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prevention is key
The World Health Organization (WHO) points out that men and women with a sexually active life are exposed to getting HPV at some point. However, studies indicate that the vaccine can effectively counter the incidence and spread of it.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that the vaccine should be given to boys and girls from 9 to 11 years of age. And, later, up to 21 years of age in men and women up to 26. This can be found in Ecuador, and to encourage prevention, private companies develop the campaign ‘We gave color to HPV’, to spread the consequences of the infection in the population and the importance of early vaccination.
“We decided to be present in public spaces with a large influx of people such as cinemas, using distinctive clothing, with the aim of creating awareness that HPV is among us and that vaccination is a commitment to our sexual health and that of our family,” he commented. Verónica Racines, president of Vanttive, a company specialized in highly specialized medicines and services.
Where to access the vaccine
In the country, the State provides these vaccines for boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 11 years 11 months and 29 days, free of charge. The vaccine is available in 1,932 first-level public health establishments and campaigns are also carried out in educational institutions.
For those over 12 years of age, the inoculation is carried out in clinics and private offices, and its value exceeds USD 100.
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2023-08-05 15:40:00
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