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Understanding Human Papillomavirus

Introduction

Sexually transmitted diseases are often not talked about. They are often a subject to talk about in secret and people are hesitant to share their condition.  Millions of people worldwide are afflicted with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). It is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted illnesses. 

To spread awareness, there have been many public health programs. With constant education and these initiatives, tremendous progress has been made in Australia. People have a vast understanding of the subject. They are more focused on its prevention, and management. 

This handbook examines the characteristics of HPV. We will study the various risks it poses to health and methods for prevention. We will also cover the steps Australia is taking to address this public health concern.

What is the HPV virus?

The term "HPV" describes a family of more than 200 related viruses. Certain HPV viruses cause skin warts. while others infect mucous membranes and might have more serious health consequences.

Skin-to-skin contact, particularly during sexual activity, is how HPV is transmitted. Since they are so prevalent, almost everyone who engages in sexual activity will experience at least one of the forms at some point in their lives. 

High- and Low-risk HPV Strains

These are the two categories of HPV strains: 

• Low-risk HPV: HPV strains like 6 and 11 are known to trigger genital warts. However, they do not cause cancer. 

• High-risk HPV: These are responsible for causing cancers. Some of them are cervical, anal, and throat. These are caused by strains of HPV 16 and 18.

HPV in Australia: Impact and Prevalence

Although HPV is very common in Australia, the nation has made great efforts in its fight against it. It has started a national vaccination program. This has led to a notable decline in HPV-related infections and illnesses.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has also confirmed this data. Still, HPV remains a public health issue, especially among groups that are not vaccinated or routinely screened.

HPV-associated cancers

HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer. This has been seen worldwide. In Australia, it is one of the most common cancers among women. However, with initiatives like the National Cervical Screening Program, there have been fewer cases. HPV vaccination has also reduced the effects dramatically. 

Some of the other cancers related to HPV are:

• Anal cancer: It is more common in those with weakened immune systems. men who have sex with men (MSM) are also at a high risk. 

• Oropharyngeal cancer: HPV is becoming more and more associated with this cancer, especially in men.

• Vulvar and penile cancers: it is less prevalent but still is a cause for concern. 

Australia's HPV Vaccination Program

Australia has become a global leader in terms of vaccination. It has aced in HPV vaccination. The HPV vaccine was made available in the nation in 2007 as a part of the National Immunization Program (NIP). In 2013, the vaccination, which had previously only been meant for young women, was extended to involve boys.

The vaccine is called Gardasil 9. It guards against nine different strains of HPV. It includes the high-risk types that cause the majority of cancers linked to HPV.

The Vaccination Program's Success

Australia has one of the greatest coverage percentages in the world for HPV vaccinations. It is because of its very successful program. The Australian Government Department of Health reports that more than 80% of teenagers have received vaccinations. The effect has been significant:

Reduction in HPV prevalence:  there has been more than an 80% drop in the spread of HPV infections. It is because of the programs which aim to help young people.

Reduced rate of genital warts: According to a Kirby Institute study, widespread vaccination has resulted in a 90% reduction in the occurrence of genital warts in young individuals.

Reduced rate of cervical cancer: Australia is on track to become cancer free of public health concerns by the year 2000.  by that time, it may even become a rare cancer by 2035. 

Australia's Cervical Screening Program

Screening is necessary for early detection of cervical cancer.  HPV vaccine is an effective preventive measure. A Pap smear was replaced with an HPV DNA test as part of the 2017 revisions. This happened under Australia's National Cervical Screening Program. This test is more effective at identifying high-risk HPV infections before they progress to cancer.

Changes to the Screening Scheme

• HPV DNA test: women between the ages of 25 and 74 are now invited to have an HPV DNA test every five years. It has replaced getting a Pap smear every two years. This test helps to identify cervical cancer-causing high-risk HPV strains. 

• Self-collection: Women who are uncomfortable taking a traditional exam can now choose to take the test themselves for the first time. This has increased accessibility and encouraged more women to participate in the screening. 

Effects of Screening

In Australia, the incidence of cervical cancer has dramatically decreased. It is a result of increased cervical screening and HPV vaccination.

According to the AIHW, early detection and treatment reduced the death rate from cervical cancer by over 50%. This is the data between 1991 and 2017 and shows massive progress. 

Men and HPV

Men can also have problems associated with HPV. however historically, women have been the centre of this treatment.  They have received all the attention regarding this virus because of its association with cervical cancer.

The HPV vaccination is essential for males and boys as well. It will help to stop the virus from spreading. It also guards against cancers such as oropharyngeal, penile, and anal cancers.

MSM and HPV

Males who engage in male-to-male sex (MSM) relationships are especially vulnerable to HPV-related cancers. The most particular is the anal cancer.

A vaccination program was introduced for boys in 2013. It is expected to reduce the risk of HPV related cancers among MSM. However, it had an age limit. The older MSM hence remain at high risk as they were not qualified for the vaccine. 

Australia's Challenges to HPV Prevention

Australia's HPV vaccination and screening programs have been successful.  nevertheless, there are still certain issues to be resolved:

• Vaccine hesitancy: Despite Australia's high vaccination rates, some parents are still afraid to vaccinate their children. This could be out of fear of side effects or inaccurate information.

• Access for marginalised communities:  The rates of vaccination and screening are lower among certain groups. This includes immigrants Australians of Indigenous descent, and people of isolated regions. These groups face certain obstacles to accessing healthcare. It includes limited access, cultural disparities, and financial difficulties.

• HPV awareness: More people need to know about the risks associated with HPV, especially men and older people. The link between HPV and cancers other than cervical cancer is not well known. Once people have adequate information they will get the vaccine. 

Filling in the Blanks

Public health campaigns should concentrate on the following. It will help them to keep  the illness under control:

• Raising awareness: public education efforts should be aimed at both men and women. This will help to raise knowledge of HPV, its transmission, and its possible health effects. 

• Increasing accessibility: To overcome the gap in immunisation and screening rates, outreach is important. There should be enough access to underprivileged populations. This can happen by taking appropriate initiatives and mobile healthcare services.

• Promotion of vaccinations: Retaining high vaccination rates requires education and transparency. It will make more people aware and they will be less hesitant to get the vaccine. 

Future Outlook: Getting Rid of Cancer Associated with HPV

Australia is leading the way in the global battle against HPV. It continues to follow vaccination rates and screening programs continue. This gives Australia the potential to become the first nation in the world to completely eradicate cervical cancer as a public health issue. 

Australia has been recognized as a model nation in this area by the World Health Organization (WHO). It has been appraised for its strategy for HPV prevention and early detection. It stands as an example of public health offering a model which other countries can adopt.

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