Time: 2024-07-08
While a highly effective vaccine exists to protect against human papillomavirus ( HPV ) , millions of women in low- and middle - income countries are still at risk of Cervical cancer . HPV vaccines only started to be rolled out in Africa a decade ago , leaving many without access to the vaccine in time . Yesterday , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) issued a report on the preferred characteristics of therapeutic HPV vaccines as a way of guiding researchers and manufacturers . Dr. Sami Gottlieb , a medical doctor and epidemiologist within the WHO , highlighted the potential lifesaving benefits of therapeutic vaccines against HPV for women who have already acquired the infection.
Cervical cancer is a leading cause of death among women , claiming one life every two minutes . In 2020 , the disease killed 342,000 women , with 90 % of the fatalities occurring in low- and middle - income countries . HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection , with around four in five men and women experiencing at least one HPV infection by age 45 . The HPV vaccine is crucial in preventing 98 % of HPV infections and ultimately stopping cervical cancer . However , due to limited access to the vaccine in lower - income countries , millions of women remain unprotected against the virus and its potential consequences.
Therapeutic vaccines are being developed to combat HPV infections in adults and treat precancerous cells . These innovative vaccines could provide a new approach to clearing HPV or addressing abnormal cell growth in individuals already exposed to the virus . The WHO emphasizes the need for developers to design therapeutic HPV vaccines suitable for use in low- and middle - income countries , where the majority of cervical cancer - related deaths occur . These vaccines could complement existing interventions such as preventive vaccinations , timely screenings , and effective treatments , forming a vital part of the global effort to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030.
The WHO report outlines the key goals of the Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative , including vaccinating 90 % of girls with HPV vaccines , screening 70 % of women using high - performance tests , and treating 90 % of women with precancerous cells or cervical cancer . It also provides guidance for vaccine developers on medical indications , target populations , safety and efficacy criteria , and practical considerations to meet global public health needs . With over 20 therapeutic HPV vaccine candidates in development , these innovative solutions could offer a lifeline to women at risk of HPV - related diseases worldwide.
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