HPV Vaccination in Turkey: The Most Powerful Shield Against Cervical Cancer
What is the HPV vaccine? Who should get it? Learn about the 4-valent and 9-valent vaccines (Gardasil 9) that protect against cervical cancer and genital warts. Vaccination schedules and safety information with Dr. Cengiz Andan.
A Revolution in Medicine: “The Vaccine That Prevents Cancer”
Cancer is often seen as a disease with complex, unpredictable causes. However, Cervical Cancer is a major exception. The cause is known in 99.7% of cases: HPV (Human Papilloma Virus).
Because we know the cause, we can prevent the disease. The HPV vaccine is one of the greatest medical breakthroughs in history, protecting not just against a virus, but against a potential cancer.
At Dr. Cengiz Andan’s Clinic in Istanbul, we prioritize preventive medicine. Our goal is not just to treat diseases after they occur, but to prevent them from ever happening. Therefore, we strongly recommend vaccination for both girls and boys, as well as adults.
- What Does the HPV Vaccine Protect You From?
Although commonly known as the “Cervical Cancer Vaccine,” its protection is much broader. By blocking the virus from entering the body, the vaccine prevents:
- Cervical Cancer: One of the most common gynecological cancers in women.
- Genital Warts (Condyloma): While not life-threatening, they are highly contagious and difficult to treat. The vaccine blocks Types 6 and 11, which cause 90% of warts.
- Other Cancers: It provides protection against cancers of the Vagina, Vulva, Anus, Penis, and Head & Neck (Oropharyngeal).
- Vaccine Types: What is the Difference Between 2, 4, and 9-Valent?
As technology has advanced, so has the vaccine’s coverage.
- Bivalent Vaccine (Cervarix): Protects only against the two most cancer-causing types (16 and 18). Does not protect against warts.
- Quadrivalent Vaccine (Gardasil 4): Protects against Types 16 and 18, plus the wart-causing Types 6 and 11.
- Nonavalent Vaccine (Gardasil 9): The most current and comprehensive vaccine. In addition to the 4 types above, it covers 5 additional high-risk types (31, 33, 45, 52, 58). It provides over 90% protection. This is the vaccine we currently recommend at our clinic.
- Who Should Get Vaccinated? Is There an Age Limit?
The vaccine is most effective when given before a person becomes sexually active and is exposed to the virus. However, it is still beneficial after sexual activity begins.
- Ideal Time: Girls and boys aged 9-14. (Immune response is strongest at this age).
- Young Adults: Everyone aged 15-26.
- Adults (Catch-up): Individuals aged 27-45 can also be vaccinated upon doctor’s recommendation.
Should Males Get Vaccinated? Absolutely yes. HPV can cause penile, anal, and throat cancer in men. Furthermore, vaccinating males helps break the chain of transmission, protecting women and society as a whole.
- Vaccination Schedule: How Many Doses?
The number of doses depends on age:
- Under 15 years old: 2 Doses are sufficient (0 and 6-12 months).
- 15 years and older: 3 Doses are required (0, 2, and 6 months).
The vaccine is given as an injection into the arm muscle (IM).
- Side Effects and Safety
The World Health Organization (WHO) and major international health authorities recognize the HPV vaccine as “extremely safe.”
- Common Side Effects: Pain, redness, or mild swelling at the injection site, or a mild fever.
- Serious Side Effects: There is no evidence of serious side effects or infertility caused by the vaccine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- I am HPV positive; do I still need the vaccine?Answer:Yes. The vaccine does not treat the HPV type you already have. However, it protects you against the other dangerous types you haven’t caught yet. It can also provide “cross-protection” to support your immune system.
- Do I still need Pap smears if I get vaccinated?Answer:Yes, screening must continue. The vaccine protects against the most dangerous and common types (90% protection), but rare types can still pose a risk. Regular annual check-ups are essential.
- I have genital warts; will the vaccine cure them?Answer:No. The vaccine is preventative, not curative. It won’t cure existing warts, but it can help prevent recurrence after treatment or protect against infection with different wart-causing types.
- Is this vaccine covered by insurance in Turkey?Answer:Currently, it is not in the National Vaccination Calendar in Turkey (meaning not free from the state), though some private health insurances may cover it. However, considering the cancer protection it offers, it is a vital investment in health.
- Can it be given during pregnancy?Answer:Vaccination is not recommended during pregnancy. If a woman becomes pregnant after starting the series, the remaining doses should be delayed until after delivery. It is safe to receive during breastfeeding.
Dr. Cengiz Andan guides you on the most conscious step you can take to protect yourself and your children from cancer: HPV Vaccination.
