Ethical considerations of universal vaccination against human papilloma virus

Abstract

BackgroundFrom an epidemiological perspective, the practice of universal vaccination of girls and young women in order to prevent human papilloma virus (HPV) infection and potential development of cervical cancer is widely accepted even though it may lead to the neglect of other preventive strategies against cervical cancer.DiscussionIt is argued that removing the deterrent effect – the fear of developing cancer – could encourage teenage sex. This paper reflects on the ethical legitimacy of the universal vaccination of girls and young women against HPV infection, especially regarding safety issues, the need to vaccinate people who have opted to abstain from sex, the presumption of early onset of sexual relations, the commercial interests of the companies that manufacture the vaccine, and the recommendation of universal vaccination in males.SummaryBased on the aforementioned information, we believe that the universal vaccination against HPV in young women is acceptable from an ethical point of view, given the medical advantages it presents.

Ethical issues related to human papillomavirus vaccination programs: an example from Bangladesh

“…HPV infection can be prevented primarily through vaccination and interventions targeting these modifiable risk factors. Among secondary prevention methods, cervical screening tests show great promise, especially the Papanicolaou test (Pap test) and the HPV determination test offered in resource-rich areas [ 11 ], whereas in resource-poor settings the visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) test or HPV DNA test are established as low-cost and efficient alternatives to cytological testing [ 12 ]. In Bangladesh, even though cervical screening programs began in 2004, the coverage rate remains very poor and is limited to opportunistic tests [ 13 ].…”

“…The alternative to providing framed partial information is providing full information to enable well-informed choices. Some studies suggest there is no significant effect of information framing on HPV vaccine acceptance [ 11 ]. However, accurate and complete information is proven to be effective against rumour and misinformation [ 14 ].…”

“…However, the low indication that this is indeed the most effective means of preventing cervical cancer in the context of Bangladesh makes this lack of autonomous choice ethically dubious. It is particularly important that informed consent be obtained from the parents/guardians for vaccination of adolescents [ 11 ]. It is their right, after getting adequate information about the vaccination and its consequences, to either refuse or allow their daughters/wards to be vaccinated.…”

Cervical Cancer and Ethical issues in HPV Vaccination

“…Two HPV strains (16 and 18) cause 70% of cervical cancers and precancerous cervical lesions. Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the top five cancers that affect women around the world 6 .…”

“…From an epidemiological point of view, due to achieve protection against human papilloma virus (HPV) infection and potential development of cervical cancer among women. HPV vaccine is widely accepted even though it may lead to the neglect of other preventive strategies against cervical cancer 6 .…”