HPV vaccines and prevention of cervical cancer

Summary This paper reviews the characteristics of two prophylactic HPV vaccines, which have the potential of substantially reducing HPV-related morbidity and mortality, and in particular cer vical cancer. The vaccines do not treat women with current HPV infection or HPV-related dis ease. They should be given before the start of sexual activity, i.e. to adolescent girls between 9-13 years of age. Both vaccines are highly efficacious and immunogenic and induce high levels of serum antibodies after three doses for all vaccine-related HPV types. The current duration of protection is at least six years. School-based vaccination proves to be the most cost-effective method of HPV vaccine delivery. (BJMO 2009;Vol 3;6:274-280)