The HPV vaccination rate in the Netherlands stands at 63 percent, while the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a 90 percent vaccination rate. If it is up to the Taskforce for the Netherlands HPV Cancer Free, the Netherlands will work on this. Every year 800 women get cervical cancer and 220 die. Friday 4 March is World HPV Awareness Day and on this day the Taskforce reflects on the lack of vaccination coverage. This is reported by Erasmus MC.
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Most people get hit in their lives infected with HPV, but hardly notice it. However, an infection can have serious consequences. Women can get cervical cancer or vulvar cancer and men can get cancer of their penis, anus or pharynx.
HPV vaccination
There is a vaccine available that offers 90 percent protection against cervical or anal cancer. Girls and boys aged 9 to 10 have recently been offered this vaccine. And unvaccinated 12-18-year-olds will get the chance to get vaccinated against HPV this year and next. The vaccination target group has therefore been broadened, but the Taskforce for the Netherlands HPV Cancer Free wants more to be done to increase the vaccination rate.
Catch-up campaign
“There will be another catch-up campaign for everyone between the ages of 18 and 26. People older than 26 can get vaccinated through their GP, but they have to pay for it themselves. A vaccination costs about 400 euros,” explains gynecological oncologist Heleen van Beekhuizen of Erasmus MC.
Population Surveys
And then there is the cervical cancer population screening, which women can participate in from the age of 30. Even if they have been vaccinated against it. Men who have sex with men have an increased risk of anal cancer and are therefore screened for it. The task force also wants more people to participate in the population screenings. The participation rate in the Netherlands is slightly lower than the 70 percent recommended by the WHO.
By: National Education Guide
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