If like many women, you have heard about HPV vaccine but never got the time to research or budget to actually be vaccinated – then here are some information to help. Like other forms of cancers, cervical cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop and spread in the cervix. This is caused by persistent infection with the cancer causing human papillomavirus or HPV.
How to protect yourself against Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer continues to be a major threat for Filipino women. It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among Filipinas. What’s worrisome is that two in three Filipinas diagnosed with cervical cancer may die within five years. Since culturally, Filipinas are known to be caring and selfless for others but tend to dismiss concerns about themselves, those who may have contracted cervical cancer may have been diagnosed at a late stage, when the chances of recovery are slim.
Lifestyle changes can help prevent the development of cervical cancer, such as being conscientious about one’s sexual activities. Beyond regular consultations and pap smears by your OB-GYN, vaccines that protect against cancer-causing HPV are also now readily available. I would personally add following a healthy and active lifestyle, especially eating as much vegetables as you can!
HPV Vaccine
The only way to get HPV vaccine is to consult your doctor. When HPV vaccine was first announced a few years ago, I encountered offers from friends, even acquaintances of promos such as getting a discount if you get vaccinated as a group. I am not saying this is not legit but for me, it is better to talk to your own doctor or obgyne. When I gave birth, my own doctor asked me to get vaccinated but like most moms – it was not my priority but taking care of my new family.
According to the Cancer Council Australia, HPV vaccine can provide almost 100% protection from specific HPV types. For Cervarix, the vaccine manufactured by GSK – can prevent infection from HPV types 16 and 18, that cause about 70% of cervical cancer cases.
The only common side effects of vaccination are pain, redness and/or swelling at the site of injection. Unlike what even I originally thought, HPV vaccine does not contain any live virus or DNA of the virus and so will not cause cancer.
For more information about HPV vaccine, it is best to consult your doctor and also check GSK’s Facebook page for the vaccine in the Philippines: Power Over Cervical Cancer. You and I should make time for this to protect our family and their future – especially our children who rely on us to be healthy and capable of making a living and running a home.
