Blekinge Launches Free HPV Vaccination Program for Young Adults
Blekinge,Sweden,is taking proactive steps to combat HPV-related cancers by offering free vaccinations to all residents aged 17 to 26,regardless of gender. This initiative aims to protect a wider segment of the population from the human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted infection.
The program specifically targets individuals who have not previously received the HPV vaccine. Vaccinations will be administered in two doses, with the second dose scheduled 6-12 months after the first.
Vaccination Rollout
- High School Students: Students in their second and third years of high school will be vaccinated on-site at their schools. Specific dates and times will be announced later.
- Out-of-School Youth: Individuals within the target age group who are not attending high school can schedule their vaccination appointments at their local health centers.
Did You Know?
HPV is so common that most sexually active people will get it at some point in their lives. While many infections clear up on their own, some can lead to serious health problems.
The Importance of Vaccination
Dr. bengt Wittesjö, infection control physician in the Blekinge region, emphasized the significance of this initiative: We are pleased to now be able to offer this vaccine against HPV-caused cancer free of charge to the target group. Since the vaccination against HPV started, it has been possible to see that fewer has been infected with the types that the vaccine protects against. The presence of condyloma has also decreased.
The positive impact of HPV vaccination is already evident, with a noticeable decrease in HPV infections and condyloma (genital warts) as the introduction of vaccination programs.
National Recommendation and Regional Action
The decision to offer free HPV vaccinations aligns with a recommendation from the Public Health Authority issued late last year, urging vaccination for everyone up to age 26 who has not been previously vaccinated. Region blekinge adopted this recommendation in the spring, making the vaccine accessible without cost.
HPV: A Threat to All genders
While HPV vaccination programs initially focused on girls, it is now recognized that HPV affects both men and women. since 2020, men have also been included in vaccination efforts.
Dr. Wittesjö highlights the broader implications:
This effort can both save lives and eradicate several cancers caused by HPV virus. It is not only cervical cancer and vulva cancer, but also anal cancer, penis cancer and throat cancer. Therefore, it is important to vaccinate regardless of gender.
Dr. Bengt Wittesjö, Infection Control Physician, Blekinge Region
Pro Tip
Even if you are no longer a teenager, it’s worth discussing HPV vaccination with your doctor. While this program targets those up to 26, vaccination may still be beneficial for older individuals.
Understanding HPV
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease in Sweden,affecting a majority of sexually active individuals. While genital warts are the most prevalent manifestation, HPV can also lead to various cancers.
Each year in Sweden, approximately 1,000 women and 550 men are diagnosed with cancers caused by HPV.
