Although the vaccine against HPV (human papillomavirus) Although it is one of the main tools in combating various types of cancer, many myths and misinformation still circulate about it. Among the most common rumors are that the vaccine could encourage the early onset of sexual activity or cause serious adverse effects, such as infertility. However, these myths have no scientific basis and only make it difficult to adhere to vaccination.
HPV is a virus that, in many cases, does not present symptoms, but is responsible for causing serious illnesses, such as cancer of the cervix, penis, anus, oropharynxbetween others.
Data Inca (National Cancer Institute) estimate, each year, 17 thousand cases and 7,209 deaths from cervical cancer in Brazilbeing the second cause of cancer death in women in the country. Already the Penile cancer represents 2% of all types of cancer that affect Braziliansbeing more common in the North and Northeast regions, according to the Ministry of Health.
In Brazil, the HPV vaccine is available free of charge for girls and boys aged 9 to 19and also for priority groups with specific health conditions, such as immunosuppressed people or victims of sexual violence, up to 45 years old. However, even with this data, many are still afraid to vaccinate their children, mainly due to misinformation.
Debunking myths
Vaccine resistance starts with misinformation. The pediatrician and medical manager of the Butantan InstituteMário Bochembuzio, states that “there is no scientific evidence that proves that the HPV vaccine has any relationship with the early onset of sexual activity. On the contrary, it is a form of protection against serious diseases, such as cancer, which can affect people’s adult lives.”
Another common myth is that the vaccine could cause cancer. “The vaccine not only prevents cancer, it also protects against types of HPV that are directly linked to the development of cancer, such as cervical and penile cancer,” explains Bochembuzio. The immunizer contains Virus-Like Particles (VLPs), which do not have genetic material and, therefore, cannot cause infection or cancer.
Furthermore, some people still believe that the vaccine is not safe for children and adolescents. “The immune response is stronger between 9 and 14 years old. This makes the vaccine more effective in this age group. It is largely safe, with more than 15 years of studies proving its effectiveness”, says the expert. The HPV vaccine is approved by Anvisa (National Health Surveillance Agency) and has been available in the National Vaccination Calendar since 2014.
Confirmed safety and efficacy
Many also fear that HPV causes serious side effects, such as seizures or infertility. However, studies show that these effects are extremely rare. Still according to Bochembuzio, “there is no evidence to suggest that the vaccine causes infertility or serious neurological reactions. On the contrary, it is a way to prevent much more serious complications, such as cancer, which can compromise reproductive health.”
Another common myth is the fear of thrombosis or blood clots, with some people associating the vaccine with these risks. “Large-scale studies, such as the one carried out in Denmark with 500 thousand women, found no relationship between the HPV vaccine and an increase in thrombosis”, highlights the doctor.
Importance of vaccination
Although many people still think that the HPV vaccine is only necessary for women, men should also be vaccinated. HPV is responsible for cancers of the penis, anus and oropharynx, as well as genital warts. In a 2023 study published in The Lancet Global Healthit was revealed that one in three men over the age of 15 is infected with at least one type of genital HPV, with a large proportion of these infections being high-risk.
Vaccinating boys, therefore, not only protects the health of these young people, but also contributes to reducing the spread of the virus and the risk of cancer throughout the community. “Vaccinating boys and girls is a collective strategy that can change the reality of HPV-associated cancer in the future”, concludes Bochembuzio.
