The human papillomavirus is largely responsible for the occurrence of neoplasms, including cervical cancer, which is one of the most common cancers among women. The infection is mostly sexually transmitted. How can we protect ourselves against it?
- Serious sexually transmitted diseases
In most cases, the human body copes perfectly with the presence of the human papillomavirus, but in 20 percent those infected may develop chronic infection that can lead to cancerous changes. Infection can be prevented thanks to the HPV vaccine, which is increasingly reimbursed by local governments. Health Minister Łukasz Szumowski announced that HPV vaccinations will be reimbursed from 2021 for every girl from the age of nine.
- Read also: Cervical Cancer Prevention Week. We focus on education
Why the HPV vaccine is so controversial? How does it work and who should take it? Why is it recommended not only for girls, but also for boys? Iga Skrzypczyńska, oncologist and radiotherapist, and Dr. Anna Zimny-Zając, editor-in-chief of medTvoiLokony talk about HPV.