Human papillomavirus vaccination: evidence base for efficacy and safety

Abstract

The article provides a literature review on the prevention of cervical cancer by human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. Currently, 3 vaccines are available: the 4-valent vaccine against HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18, the 9-valent vaccine against HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58 and the bivalent vaccine against HPV types 16 and 18. Vaccination provides protection for women and men against infection with HPV and further development of HPV-associated diseases. Following immunization, seroconversion develops in 93-100% of women and in 99-100% of men and is effective in preventing incident and persistent HPV infection as well as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. HPV immunization is ineffective in treating an existing HPV infection, genital warts, or anogenital intraepithelial neoplasia. HPV vaccination status does not affect recommendations for cervical cancer screening.

Keywords

• human papillomavirus
• vaccination
• cervical cancer