Protect your children, yourself & your partner
October 1-7, 2018 marked the second annual HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) Prevention Week in Canada. As Chair of this educational week, initiated by the Federation of Medical Women of Canada, we focused on the need for both education and awareness of this common virus and how we can prevent the cancers associated with persistence. What does that mean practically? Well, 75-80% of adults in North America will be exposed to HPV at some point in their life. Most of us clear the virus, the way we clear a common cold. But persistence of the virus has now been linked to 6 different cancers in men and women. The most common one is cervical cancer where HPV now accounts for more than 99% of cancers. And oral cancers (think of the Michael Douglas story) are rapidly increasing in men.
The good news?
We have a fabulous vaccine, now offered to all boys and girls in the school system throughout Canada, in every province and territory. However, we do not have 100% uptake of the vaccine. Some of our young people may not be protected. And what about older men and women? Our national guideline says there is no upper age limit for use of the vaccine. If you are likely going to be exposed, a new partner for example, you should talk to your doctor about immunization.
How do we know vaccination is really worth it? Australia is the leading country in the world with respect to this vaccine. When they announced vaccination in the school system more than 10 years ago, their uptake was very high. And they started immunizing boys as well in their school system soon after girls. The result: they just announced that by 2028, they will be the first country in the world to have eliminated cervical cancer as a public health issue, with less than 4 cases per 100,000. And by 2066, they project less than 1 case per 100,000.
Eliminating cancer by vaccination against the virus responsible.
That is what this is all about. That is why we held a week of education. That is why we want to be the second country in the world to eliminate cervical cancer. That is why you should protect your kids, protect yourself, protect your partner. That is why you should talk to your doctor!
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