Prevention: The HPV vaccine prevents 90% of cervical cancers
The Public Health Authority (Weqaya) affirmed that cervical cancer is no longer the terrifying specter it once was, but rather a highly preventable disease thanks to medical advancements. The authority revealed that currently available vaccines offer over 90% protection against common types of human papillomavirus (HPV), the leading cause of this type of cancer, and urged girls and women to take advantage of available preventative services to ensure a healthy and safe future.
Global context and national efforts
This announcement comes at a time of concerted global efforts to eradicate cervical cancer, which, according to the World Health Organization, is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. In line with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 Health Sector Transformation Program, the Kingdom seeks to promote the principle of "prevention is better than cure" by providing the latest internationally approved vaccines. This step is part of a comprehensive national strategy aimed at reducing the incidence and mortality rates associated with this disease, positioning the Kingdom among the leading nations striving to be declared cervical cancer-free in the future.
The nature of the virus and the danger of silence
The authority explained that the danger of the human papillomavirus (HPV) lies in its silent and deceptive nature, as infection often occurs without any clear initial symptoms, which can lead to delayed diagnosis. This highlights the crucial role of early vaccination as the strongest and only line of defense against the development of cancerous tumors or serious health complications that are difficult to treat later, as the vaccine works to break the chain of infection before it begins.
Complete safety and denial of rumors
The National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) dispelled common concerns about the vaccine's safety, firmly emphasizing that internationally recognized scientific studies have proven its high safety profile and its lack of link to disease. The NCDC also categorically denied rumors linking the vaccine to negative effects on fertility or reproductive function, asserting that it safely enhances natural immunity and does not interfere with the vital functions of the reproductive system.
Target groups and treatment protocol
Health authorities have precisely identified the target groups to ensure maximum effectiveness, recommending that the vaccine be given to girls and women aged 9 to 26. It is preferable to administer the vaccine before potential exposure to the virus to ensure maximum protection. The approved treatment protocol has been detailed as follows:
- The age group from 9 to 14 years: Only two doses are needed to achieve the required immunity due to the strong immune system response at this age.
- The 15-26 age group: requires three doses to ensure full immunization according to international medical standards.
Invitation to book via "Sehhaty"
The Ministry of Health urged all eligible women and their guardians to book appointments through the "Sehhaty" app, emphasizing that the ease of access to the service reflects the health leadership's commitment to protecting Saudi women's health from long-term risks. The Ministry concluded its statement by stressing that awareness and correcting misconceptions are the cornerstones of prevention, and that relying on official sources is the only way to obtain accurate medical information and avoid misleading rumors.
