HPV vaccines a game changer for women

THE introduction of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for ten-year-old girls in Zimbabwe has been hailed as a pivotal step in combating the spread of HPV, the leading cause of cervical cancer.

The vaccine works by injecting a weakened variant of the virus into the body, enabling the immune system to recognise and fight the infection, thereby building immunity.

The HPV vaccine was officially introduced in Zimbabwe in 2014, targeting young girls before they become sexually active and exposed to HPV.

This proactive approach is crucial, as research indicates that cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in Africa, with approximately 34 000 new cases diagnosed annually. The introduction of the vaccine aims to reduce these statistics by preventing the onset of HPV infections.

Dr Munekayi Padingani, an epidemiologist, said the vaccine has been proven effective.

“I want to encourage parents to ensure their children receive it at the recommended time so that they can benefit,” he said.

Although HPV affects both males and females, the vaccination is currently offered only to girls in Zimbabwe due to the higher incidence of cervical cancer in women.

Dr Padingani also emphasised the importance of education about the vaccine, noting that many parents harbour misconceptions. He urged families to engage in open discussions about hygiene practices and to avoid behaviours that could increase the risk of HPV transmission.

“There is a need to maintain good hygiene and avoid unnecessary contact with the cervix. Some people insert fingers into their private parts, and that behaviour can also introduce HPV to the cervix,” said Dr Padingani.

“Parents should have these conversations with their children and discourage the habit of touching themselves.”

Dr Padingani explained that certain lifestyle habits, such as smoking and having multiple sexual partners, can exacerbate the risk of cervical cancer. He also noted that hormonal medications, including some forms of family planning, may weaken the cervix, increasing susceptibility to the virus.

While parents generally welcome the vaccine, concerns remain about a lack of education and understanding regarding its purpose. Some parents have expressed fears that the vaccination could be misconstrued as a form of family planning.

“When these vaccinations are administered at schools, some parents mistakenly believe they are giving children contraceptives because they tell the children to bring their health cards, and each child interprets the message in their own way,” said Dr Padingani.

“Some parents genuinely believe the children are being given a contraceptive and may make the children miss school on vaccination day. There is a need for the responsible authorities to explain to parents what the vaccine is, how it works, and its benefits,” said Leslie Dube, a mother of an 11-year-old girl.