Is cancer preventable through vaccination: Insights from the Health Ministry
Photo: the Ministry of Health explained whether it is possible to vaccinate against cancer (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Up to 25% of cancer cases are caused by hepatitis and papillomaviruses. Meanwhile, vaccination is an effective method to protect oneself from diseases, according to the press service of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine.
"The human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B and C viruses can stimulate infected cells to divide excessively, leading to tumor development. Protecting oneself from oncogenic viruses and cancer can be achieved through vaccination, barrier contraception, and the use of other forms of personal protection," the press service writes.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver mainly due to viral infection. 96% of deaths from viral hepatitis are caused by hepatitis B and C. They are the leading causes of liver cancer, ranking third in mortality.
There is an effective vaccine against hepatitis B. The full vaccination course consists of three doses administered at intervals of 0-1-6 months.
There is currently no vaccine against hepatitis C worldwide. People should undergo an express test annually to detect markers of viral hepatitis. In case of a positive result, the doctor will prescribe treatment.
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
There are over 100 types of human papillomavirus, and several of them cause cancer of the cervix, penis, anus, throat, tongue, and lips.
"These are primarily types 16 and 18. There is a vaccine against the main oncogenic types of HPV. Currently, 21% of women worldwide are vaccinated against HPV," adds the Ministry of Health.
We also wrote about recommendations that can help reduce the chances of developing cancer.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
