The benefit of vaccinating up to age 26 to prevent cervical cancer is debated

Against the papillomavirus, it is necessary to vaccinate not only teenagers, but also young adults, men and women: this is the recommendation issued by the National Academy of Medicine (ANM) on January 29, which is in favor. “Expanding and promoting HPV vaccination in the general population up to age 26”. HPV – or human papillomavirus – which is sexually transmitted, causes more than 6,000 new cancers each year in France, including nearly 3,000 cervical cancers that cause more than 1,000 deaths. 1,500 ENT cancers and 1,500 rectal cancers.

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In France, the bivalent Cervix vaccine is available, which protects against types 16 and 18 viruses, which are responsible for most cancers, and the nonvalent Gardasil, which is also effective against an additional five types of virus. Today, vaccination is recommended for all boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 14. According to Public Health France, by December 31, 2022, only 47.8% of girls and 12.8% of boys born in 2007 had received one of the two doses planned for this age group. The vaccine is recommended with three doses this time for 15-19 year olds and for men who have sex with men up to 26 years of age.

Through a spokesperson, the High Authority for Health (HAS) said it has noted the ANM’s opinion on the matter. “Very important topic”. As stated in its work program for 2024 published on January 18, the HAS wants to study the possibility of recommending vaccination for women and men aged 20 to 26 this year, regardless of their sexual orientation. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the federal Public Health Agency recommend vaccination for everyone up to age 26.

Most of the effectiveness is seen in the 14-18 age group

To support his opinion, ANM emphasizes that “The risk of HPV infection in both sexes continues throughout life”. And “50% of cervical cancers are due to infections contracted after age 20.” gold, “If the benefit of vaccination is best for the uninfected, it remains important for the infected.” The Academy adds that “Several studies show efficacy and good tolerability of the vaccine between 16 and 26 years of age on preneoplastic lesions.

(previous position) and genital warts in women and men.

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