HPV Vaccine in Singapore: A Vital Step Towards Preventing Cancer and Other HPV-Related Diseases

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide, with certain strains linked to a variety of health complications, including cancer. In Singapore, the HPV vaccine has become a crucial tool in reducing the burden of HPV-related diseases, particularly cervical cancer, which remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women. This article explores the significance of the HPV vaccine Singapore, its availability, and how it is helping to protect public health.

What is the HPV Vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is designed to protect individuals from infection by certain high-risk strains of HPV that are responsible for a range of serious health issues, including cervical cancer, anal cancer, and genital warts. The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that can fight off the virus before it has a chance to infect the body.

In Singapore, there are three primary types of HPV vaccines available:

• Gardasil®: Protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18, which are responsible for most HPV-related cancers and genital warts.

• Gardasil 9®: An updated version of the vaccine that protects against 9 different strains of HPV, including those responsible for the majority of HPV-related cancers.

• Cervarix®: Provides protection against HPV types 16 and 18, which are particularly associated with cervical cancer.

Why is the HPV Vaccine Important in Singapore?

The HPV vaccine is a crucial public health initiative in Singapore for several reasons:

1. Preventing Cervical Cancer: Cervical cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women in Singapore, and HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for approximately 70% of all cervical cancer cases. By vaccinating against these high-risk strains, the HPV vaccine helps to prevent the development of cervical cancer, a disease that often goes undetected in its early stages but is highly treatable when caught early.

2. Reducing Other HPV-Related Cancers: The HPV vaccine also provides protection against other cancers caused by HPV, including cancers of the anus, vulva, vagina, penis, and oropharyngeal cancers (throat, tongue, and tonsils). Vaccination reduces the overall burden of these cancers, which are on the rise in some populations.

3. Preventing Genital Warts: HPV types 6 and 11 cause approximately 90% of genital warts cases. While not life-threatening, genital warts can be emotionally distressing and cause discomfort. The HPV vaccine offers protection against these strains, reducing the incidence of genital warts and improving the quality of life for individuals at risk.

4. Reducing Healthcare Costs: By preventing the need for treatments associated with HPV-related cancers and diseases, the vaccine helps to reduce healthcare costs over time, which benefits both individuals and the healthcare system.

HPV Vaccination in Singapore: Who Should Get It?

In Singapore, the HPV vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys, with the goal of providing protection before exposure to the virus through sexual activity. The vaccine is most effective when administered at a young age, and the national immunization program encourages vaccination for adolescents.

1. Girls: The HPV vaccine is offered to girls in Singapore through the school-based vaccination program. The vaccination is provided free of charge to girls aged 12, as part of the national efforts to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer in the country.

2. Boys: In 2020, Singapore expanded the eligibility for the HPV vaccine to include boys, recognizing the importance of preventing HPV-related cancers in men as well. Boys aged 12 are now also eligible for the vaccine, and it is provided through the national vaccination program.

3. Catch-up Vaccination: While the HPV vaccine is ideally administered between the ages of 9 and 14, it is still beneficial for older individuals who have not been vaccinated. The vaccine is available for males and females up to the age of 26, and catch-up vaccination is encouraged for those who may have missed the opportunity to get vaccinated during adolescence.

4. High-Risk Groups: The HPV vaccine is also recommended for individuals in high-risk groups, including men who have sex with men (MSM), individuals with weakened immune systems, and those with a history of HPV-related diseases. These groups may benefit from vaccination even if they are older than the typical age range.

The HPV Vaccination Process in Singapore

The HPV vaccine is typically administered in a series of two or three injections, depending on the age at which the first dose is given. For those under 15 years of age, only two doses of the vaccine are required, spaced six months apart. For individuals aged 15 and older, three doses are administered over a six-month period.

The vaccination is safe, and side effects are usually mild and temporary. Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, mild fever, and fatigue. Serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, are extremely rare. The vaccine’s safety and effectiveness are supported by extensive clinical research and have been confirmed by global health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

HPV Vaccine Cost and Availability in Singapore

In Singapore, the HPV vaccine is widely available through both public and private healthcare providers. For eligible individuals, the vaccine is free of charge as part of the national immunization program.

For those outside the national vaccination program or those who want to access the vaccine at private clinics, the cost may vary depending on the provider, with prices generally ranging between SGD 150 to SGD 250 per dose. Many private healthcare providers also offer the Gardasil 9 vaccine, which provides broader protection against more strains of HPV.

Conclusion: A Step Towards a Healthier Future

The HPV vaccine is one of the most effective tools in preventing HPV-related cancers and diseases. In Singapore, the vaccine has become a cornerstone of public health efforts to reduce the burden of cervical cancer and other HPV-related conditions. Through national vaccination programs and increased awareness, Singapore is taking significant strides towards a future where these preventable diseases are far less common.

If you or your child has not yet been vaccinated against HPV, it’s never too late to consider getting the vaccine. Talk to a healthcare provider to learn more about the HPV vaccine and how it can help protect against cancer and other health complications caused by HPV. By getting vaccinated, you are taking a proactive step in safeguarding long-term health and contributing to a cancer-free future.