The HPV vaccine: why is it so important in preventing cervical cancer?

• More than 99% of cervical cancer cases are associated with HPV, which makes the vaccine key to preventing it, explains Dr Francis Aquino, of Médico Express.

Santo Domingo. For years, cervical cancer has been approached through prevention. The conversation, however, has moved on: it is no longer only about detecting it in time, but about understanding its main cause and acting before the risk appears.

In that respect, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is not just another factor, but the main cause of this type of cancer, the fourth most frequent in women worldwide. 

“HPV is the main factor in cervical cancer. Practically every case, more than 99%, is associated with a persistent infection by high-risk types,” explains Dr Francis Aquino, gynaecological oncologist at Médico Express.

Although HPV is very common and in most cases clears up on its own, it is persistence that makes the difference.

“Most infections resolve by themselves thanks to the immune system, but when the virus persists it can cause abnormal cell changes that progress from precancerous lesions to invasive cancer if they are not detected in time,” says Aquino.

Types 16 and 18 are responsible for the greatest burden of disease globally, which has made it possible to focus more precise prevention strategies, backed by bodies such as the World Health Organization.

Why the vaccine matters

HPV vaccination has redefined the approach to cervical cancer, shifting the emphasis towards primary prevention.

“The vaccine generates antibodies that prevent the initial infection by high-risk types before exposure, ideally before the start of sexual activity,” explains the specialist.

Its impact is no myth. Where coverage is high, the reduction in cancer incidence has been significant.

“Vaccines can prevent between 70% and 90% of the cases associated with the types included, and studies have shown reductions of up to 80-90% in women vaccinated from adolescence,” he adds.

When should you be vaccinated?

One of the key points is when to be vaccinated. “The recommendation is clear: girls and boys between 9 and 14, preferably before the age of 11 or 12. In that group, the immune response is stronger and protection is greatest,” says Aquino.

When it is given at that point, effectiveness reaches levels close to 100% in preventing infections and precancerous lesions caused by the types included in the vaccine.

Beyond the vaccine

Despite its effectiveness, vaccination does not replace medical follow-up. “The vaccine does not cover every type of HPV and does not protect those who have already been exposed, which is why screening remains essential,” he warns.

Tests such as the Pap smear and HPV testing make it possible to identify changes before they develop.

“Early detection makes it possible to treat precancerous lesions with simple procedures and prevent progression to cancer in more than 90% of cases,” he stresses.

The difference between preventing and reacting

Current recommendations suggest starting screening between 21 and 25 and continuing until 65, with intervals varying between three and five years depending on the type of test. Beyond the guidelines, however, the specialist insists on the real impact of sustained prevention.

“Without regular screening, cancer can advance to later stages, with a worse outlook and higher mortality,” he warns.

To mark World Cervical Cancer Prevention Day, Aquino sums up the approach in one central idea:

“Get vaccinated in time and have regular check-ups: cervical cancer can be prevented and detected early,” he concludes.

About Médico Express

Médico Express is a complete, internationally certified outpatient medical centre with more than 40 medical specialities and a model of care centred on quality and patient safety. It has emergency services, outpatient surgery, specialist consultations, a modern medical imaging unit, endoscopy and a laboratory, as well as an International Department dedicated to coordinating care for patients and health tourists, strengthening the destination’s offer with world-class standards.