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UNBEKNOWNST to most people, cervical cancer, once a leading cause of death among women, is one of the only two preventable cancers, thanks to the HPV vaccine. This life-saving vaccine protects against the human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer. HPV can also cause other diseases such as anal cancer, oropharyngeal cancer, penile cancer, vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer and genital warts.
If you're a woman who cares about her health and her future, understanding the importance of HPV prevention including vaccination and screening and knowing where to access it is crucial. This article will guide you through the vaccination and screening process and empower you to take a proactive step towards a cervical cancer-free life.
Understanding HPV, cervical cancer, and the power of prevention
HPV is a common virus that can be transmitted through sexual contact. While most HPV infections clear up on their own, persistent infections with certain high-risk types of HPV can lead to cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine is designed to prevent these high-risk infections, significantly reducing the risk of developing cervical cancer.
Investing in prevention is an investment in your future. By getting vaccinated against HPV, you're taking a proactive step to protect yourself from a potentially life-threatening disease.
Where to get vaccinated: A quick guide for busy women
Getting vaccinated against HPV is easier than ever, with various accessible options available. Here are the primary places where you can receive the HPV vaccine:
1. Local pharmacies
The most convenient way to secure an HPV vaccine is through a local pharmacy near you. Certified immunizing pharmacists administer the vaccine to adult patients, making it easier than ever to fit vaccination into your busy schedule.
Not only are local pharmacies easily accessible to most Filipinos, but they also made it more convenient to book vaccination services online. Local pharmacies such as Mercury Drug and Watsons Pharmacy even have daily vaccination schedules in select branches.
2. Hospitals and doctors
Hospitals and clinics, particularly those with obstetrics and gynecology (ob-gyne) departments, offer HPV vaccination services for adult women. For minors, pediatricians can administer the vaccine with parental consent. A visit to your doctor for the HPV vaccine can also be an opportunity to discuss other preventive health measures, such as cervical cancer screening.
3. Specialized clinics
Clinics focusing on women's health, like Kindred, often provide HPV vaccination services. Aside from vaccination, these clinics also offer a comfortable and supportive environment for women seeking holistic health and wellness services, whether for routine health screenings, family planning services, or specialized treatments.
The Ayala Healthway VaxHub also provides a dedicated space for vaccinations, offering a wide range of vaccines for both adults and children, including the HPV vaccine.
4. Community health centers and public schools
As part of the government's mandate to improve access to routine immunization for learners aged 9-14 years old, school-based immunization program has been recently resumed to provide free HPV vaccines to students from public schools. Adults can also get free vaccination in community health centers near you.
Take action today: Your health is a priority
Protecting yourself from cervical cancer is a proactive choice that empowers you to take control of your health and well-being.
Remember, you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Your healthcare provider is a valuable resource who can answer your questions, address any concerns, and guide you through the HPV vaccination process.
Take the next step today and talk to your doctor about the HPV vaccine. Your health is worth it.
To learn more about how you can protect yourself from HPV and cervical cancer, visit https://guardagainsthpv.ph/ today.
