It is a common infection in sexually active individuals and can infect both men and women. The HPV virus can also be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact in the genital area.
HPV infection usually does not show any symptoms and usually resolves on its own. However, persistent HPV infection can lead to more serious diseases.
Currently, more than 200 subtypes of HPV have been identified.
Low-risk HPV infections can cause warts on the skin while high-risk HPV infections can turn into cancer.
HPV causes cancers such as cancers of the cervix, vulvar, vagina, penis, anus, nasopharynx, and oropharynx.
There are three types of HPV vaccines available worldwide, namely bivalent, quadrivalent and nonvalent vaccines.
Each type of vaccine provides protection against different subtypes of HPV.
HPV vaccination involves receiving a vaccine designed to provide protection against various subtypes of HPV. The vaccine stimulates the body's immune system to produce antibodies to fight HPV.
The recommended age for HPV vaccine in Malaysia is from 9 to 45 years old. It is most effective when administered before an individual initiates sexual intercourse so that by the time the individual is sexually active, the body is equipped to prevent infection.
HPV vaccination
HPV vaccination can reduce the incidence of cervical cancer by up to 90%
HPV vaccination can also protect against cancer of the vagina, vulva, penis, throat, anus, nasopharynx, and oropharynx caused by HPV.
Cervical Cancer in Malaysia
In Malaysia, cervical cancer is the 3rd most common cancer among women.
About 40% of cervical cancer cases are diagnosed late (stages 3 and 4). For those diagnosed at the final stage, their five-year survival rate is as low as 23-32%.
95% of these cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV infection.
HPV vaccination is effective in preventing cervical cancer and should be given to protect our daughters.
Brochure
To find out more information about HPV and HPV vaccines, please click the space below to read our information leaflet.