… not all HPV vaccines are the same

One vaccine protects against more strains of HPV than the other. In an era of patient choice, we need to be aware of the facts and available options. In her article on HPV Vaccination, Miss Adeola Olaitan provides the essential information to decide on type of vaccination. The key points are as follows:

• There are different strains of HPV known to cause cervical cancer
• There are currently two different types of vaccine
• The different vaccines offer different levels of protection against the strains and one also protects against genital warts
• Only one vaccine is currently provided by the NHS and the protection it provides is limited
• Only certain groups are being offered the vaccine anyway, which is not ideal
• The vaccine may not protect women who already have an HPV infection, but it will prevent subsequent infection from other strains (depending on the type of vaccine you have)
• Depending on Vaccination type, you may only be protected against 7 out of 10 cancers
• Women should continue to request cervical screening after vaccination
• Vaccination is also an opportunity for a health screen
• Use this information to ensure you get the best treatment option from your doctor

Click the link for further information on HPV Vaccination Options.