Proactively prevent HPV from today

(Dan Tri) - This November marks the first World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day, a reminder that cervical cancer can be eliminated if communities act early and properly.

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally, killing a woman every two minutes. In 2022 alone, the world recorded more than 348,000 deaths, most of them concentrated in low- and middle-income countries, where women still face many barriers to accessing screening, early detection and treatment.

In Vietnam, the situation also rings an alarm bell. According to Dr. Le Quang Thanh - Tu Du Hospital: "Every year, our country records 4,600 cases of HPV-related cancer and more than 2,500 women die from cervical cancer. Without drastic action, by 2070, up to 200,000 Vietnamese women could die from this disease. These are not just numbers, but mothers, sisters, friends, people who can be protected if timely action is taken."

Proactive HPV prevention helps reduce the burden of cervical cancer (Photo: Science Visuals).

In order to reduce the burden of disease, the Ministry of Health issued Decision 2780/QD-BYT on August 29, 2025, approving the Expanded Immunization Program Phase 3 (2026-2028). Accordingly, each year, 4-5 provinces will be able to implement free HPV vaccination for girls, with priority given to mountainous areas, disadvantaged areas and ethnic minority areas where access to health services is limited. Expanding to other age groups or applying to men is still on the long-term roadmap.

Associate Professor, Dr. Cao Huu Nghia - Pasteur Institute, Ho Chi Minh City, shared: “Free HPV vaccination for girls aged 11 is an important step in the journey to eliminate cervical cancer in Vietnam. However, due to the limited coverage of the expanded immunization program, proactively implementing preventive measures, such as regular screening, lifestyle changes, and expanding vaccination to other age groups, is necessary. HPV does not discriminate by gender; the virus can be transmitted by anyone, including men. Therefore, prevention today not only protects your own health but also demonstrates responsibility and care for your loved ones."

HPV virus under microscope (Photo: Science Visuals).

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a virus that causes warts in humans. HPV infection is common worldwide. Although most HPV infections clear up on their own, persistent infection can lead to cancer and other related diseases in both men and women, such as genital warts, precancerous and cancerous cervical and anogenital cancers.

Despite many positive results, Vietnam still faces major gaps: many girls and women do not have access to HPV prevention measures, including the HPV vaccine; vaccination programs do not provide comprehensive coverage; and public awareness is limited.

To achieve the goal of eliminating cervical cancer, we need the consensus of the health system, social organizations and each family. Cervical cancer is a preventable disease, and being proactive today will be the foundation for protecting health tomorrow.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/chu-dong-phong-ngua-hpv-tu-hom-nay-20251126112808051.htm