Why i recommend the HPV-Vaccination

Human Papilloma Virus causes cervical cancer in 97% of cases.

Although there are over 140 different sub-types, only a few can lead to cancer. These sub-types are categorised as “high risk” and “low risk”.

One in four people under 30 is affected, independent of their sex! While this does not mean that all these people will get cancer or its precursors, there is a very elevated risk of illness related to the virus. Alongside cervical cancer, condylomata (genital warts) are also caused by these viruses. Infection is mainly through skin contact, and with certain virus types this is usually through unprotected sexual intercourse (genital, anal or oral). HPV is thus one of the most common infections to be transmitted through sexual intercourse, although the infection can often go unnoticed. Condoms reduce the risk of infection by preventing contact with infected skin or with body fluids containing the pathogens. In rare cases the viruses can also be passed on by people using the same towels, drink glasses or toothbrushes.

The vaccines now available on the market offer protection against the most dangerous types of this virus. Their effectiveness has led to their successful use millions of times around the world. Men also benefit, not only indirectly through women’s well-being, but also directly: studies clearly show that cancer of the larynx can also be traced partially to HPV, whereby the infection is transmitted through oral sex. I am not alone in my opinion that this vaccination represents a significant advance in disease prevention, especially in the case of cervical cancer.