HPV vaccination in Southern Africa: A jab of hope in the fight against cervical cancer

Abstract

Cervical cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer‐related deaths in Southern Africa. Human papillomavirus vaccination offers a chance to markedly reduce this burden of disease, although challenges with vaccine delivery need to be overcome.

Prevention of Cervical Cancer in Sub-Saharan Africa: The Advantages and Challenges of HPV Vaccination

“…Delivery through schools is effective in countries with high levels of school attendance [ 9 , 29 ]. In HPV vaccination demonstration projects in LMICs, final dose coverage levels have been higher in countries delivering vaccines through schools compared with health facilities [ 6 ].…”

A Review of Cervical Cancer in South Africa: Previous, Current and Future

“…Coverage for the total cohort of children born in 2004 (including boys and girls, and private schools) in SA is estimated at around 39% [23]. The FDA approved a 9-valent vaccine, Gardasil 9 ® in December 2014 [24]. Mathematical modeling predict that the addition of HPV types 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58 to the quadrivalent vaccine could potentially protect against 90% of all cervical cancers [24].…”

“…The FDA approved a 9-valent vaccine, Gardasil 9 ® in December 2014 [24]. Mathematical modeling predict that the addition of HPV types 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58 to the quadrivalent vaccine could potentially protect against 90% of all cervical cancers [24]. This vaccine is not currently available in South Africa.…”

HPV Vaccination Recommendation Practices among Adolescent Health Care Providers in 5 Countries

“…10,12 In contrast, South Korea did not include HPV vaccination in their National Immunization Program until 2016.33 In South Africa, HPV vaccination was not yet included in the national program, and was only available in the private sector, with a school-based HPV vaccination program beginning in April 2014. 42 Study results highlight specific provider concerns that can be targeted through programmatic efforts to increase the quantity and frequency of routine provider recommendations. Making education a priority for health care providers before HPV vaccination is widely available is recommended to increase understanding of the vaccination's benefits and limitations, and to encourage provider discussions with patients.…”