As women enter middle age, many focus on issues like hormone levels, osteoporosis, or cardiovascular health, often overlooking the silent threat of HPV, the virus that causes cervical cancer.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted virus with over 200 identified strains. More than 40 of these can affect the genitals and anus in both men and women. Most infections are asymptomatic and clear up on their own, but persistent infection can lead to precancerous lesions and cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated in 2019 that HPV causes over 620,000 new cancer cases in women each year.
HPV infection isn't limited to younger women. According to a 2024 American Cancer Society study, the rate of new HPV infections in women aged 30-39 is 38.9%, and 35.1% in women aged 40-49. Cervical cancer rates in women aged 30-44 increased by 1.7% annually from 2012 to 2019.
In Vietnam, the Ministry of Health reports HPV infection rates in women range from 6.1% to 10.2%, varying by region and population group. The average probability of contracting HPV at least once with at least one opposite-sex partner is 85% for women and 91% for men. Globocan 2022 estimates over 4,600 new cervical cancer diagnoses and over 2,500 deaths from the disease annually in Vietnam.
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MSD Vietnam and the Vietnam Association of Preventive Medicine (VAPM) organized national multi-specialty scientific conferences, bringing together experts and notable research to raise awareness about the risks of HPV-related diseases. Photo: Vo Huy Vu |
MSD Vietnam and the Vietnam Association of Preventive Medicine (VAPM) organized national multi-specialty scientific conferences, bringing together experts and notable research to raise awareness about the risks of HPV-related diseases. Photo: Vo Huy Vu
Cervical cancer rates in Vietnam are closely correlated with HPV prevalence, which is higher in the South than in the North. A 2003 study found HPV prevalence in Ho Chi Minh City at 10.9%, 4 to 5 times higher than in Hanoi at 2.0%. Another study from 2010-2011 found rates of 8.27% in Ho Chi Minh City and 6.13% in Hanoi.
Dr. Pham Ho Thuy Ai, Deputy Head of the Gynecological Examination Department at Tu Du Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, noted that many middle-aged women remain complacent about HPV, believing it's a disease of younger people and unnecessary to test for or prevent.
Dr. Ai explained that many women are shocked and confused when diagnosed with cervical lesions. "I've seen many cases where women discover serious cervical lesions during routine checkups, even without noticeable symptoms. This causes them significant emotional distress, impacting their mental well-being and incurring treatment costs," she added.
Cervical cancer is the only HPV-caused cancer detectable early through recommended screening. Other HPV-related cancers may go undetected until they cause serious health problems, making HPV prevention crucial.
Dr. Ai emphasized the multifaceted approach to HPV prevention. Regular gynecological exams, cervical cancer screening with Pap smears and HPV DNA tests are simple yet effective measures for early detection.
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Dr. Pham Ho Thuy Ai, Deputy Head of the Gynecological Examination Department at Tu Du Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Vo Huy Vu |
Dr. Pham Ho Thuy Ai, Deputy Head of the Gynecological Examination Department at Tu Du Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Vo Huy Vu
"We can live healthy, active lives with a healthy sex life and still manage HPV if we are proactive. Gynecological checkups shouldn't be limited to when symptoms appear but should be part of annual healthcare, like checking blood sugar or blood pressure," Dr. Ai recommended.
She also highlighted the importance of immunity and lifestyle: "A healthy immune system helps the body eliminate most HPV strains within one to two years. Women should maintain a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management to support their immune system." HPV vaccination is also an effective preventive measure to reduce the risk of exposure.
Women aged 21 to 65 should undergo regular cervical cancer screening as advised by the Ministry of Health and consult with their gynecologist for specific guidance.
The Dan
HPV is the human papillomavirus. HPV infection is extremely common worldwide. Most infections are asymptomatic and clear up on their own, but persistent infection can cause precancerous lesions and cancer in both men and women. Individual action is essential to raise awareness of prevention in the community "For a Vietnam free from the burden of HPV." Consult with a healthcare professional and learn more about HPV at hpv.vn.
