“Vietnam Considers Adding HPV Vaccine to its National Immunization Drive”

Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of Health, Do Xuan Tuyen, sheds light on a pressing issue: the rising number of cervical cancer cases in the country. With over 2,500 women succumbing to this disease annually and approximately 6,200 recorded cases of HPV-related cancers each year, the situation demands immediate attention.

To address this, a powerful initiative was launched: a national media campaign titled “For a Vietnam Free from the Burden of HPV.” Held in Hanoi on March 29-30, the event united senior government officials, the US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper, and celebrities like singer Ha Anh Tuan, all committed to raising awareness and encouraging prevention.

Deputy Minister Tuyen emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating that if no immediate actions are taken, cervical cancer could claim the lives of 200,000 Vietnamese women by 2070. Ranking second only to breast cancer in mortality rates among Vietnamese women, cervical cancer accounts for about 12% of all female cancers in the country.

Do Xuan Tuyen, Deputy Minister of Health, passionately addresses the gathering at the launch of the national campaign. Photo: The MoH

Tuyen explained that cervical cancer has a long development period, typically affecting women between the ages of 40 and 70. However, it can also impact younger women in their 20s. Treatment costs can be substantial, ranging from VND90 million to VND138 million ($3,800 to $5,800) per year, depending on the stage of the disease. Fortunately, early detection and HPV vaccination can prevent cervical cancer. Pre-cancerous lesions detected through screening can often be treated with simple and affordable techniques.

Offering a glimmer of hope, Tuyen shared that starting in 2026, HPV vaccines will be included in the National Expanded Immunization Program and provided free of charge, marking a significant step forward in protecting Vietnam’s women and girls.

He urged individuals to prioritize their health, practice preventive measures, and stay vigilant about the risks of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases, especially for adolescents. This includes encouraging healthy lifestyle choices and regular check-ups.

Uniting for Community Health:

The campaign launch, “For a Vietnam Free from the Burdens of HPV”, united diverse stakeholders in a powerful show of commitment. Photo: VGP

The campaign witnessed a significant collaboration between the MoH’s National Center for Health Communication and Education and MSD Vietnam (Merck & Co. Inc.). Together, they signed a cooperation agreement to work on this national initiative, focusing on empowering communities through health education programs across various provinces and cities.

MSD Vietnam’s innovative use of AI and 3D projection during the two-day exhibition on Dinh Tien Hoang Street created an immersive educational experience, making health information more accessible and engaging. Their goal is to enable individuals to take charge of their health and that of their families, with a particular emphasis on HPV-related diseases, including cancer.

The US Ambassador to Vietnam, Marc E. Knapper, commended MSD’s contribution, stating that every organization and sector must play their part in combating HPV. Singer Ha Anh Tuan, the campaign ambassador, expressed his honor in being a part of this vital effort, aiming to spread awareness and reduce the burden of this dangerous virus.

The program will extend its reach through rural outreach and a series of community events and exhibitions in Hanoi, Danang, and Ho Chi Minh City, aiming to impact the lives of over 50,000 people.

Understanding HPV and Its Risks

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HPV, primarily spread through sexual contact, is linked to various malignancies beyond cervical cancer. HPV-related cancers include cervical, vaginal, penile, and genital warts, affecting both men and women. Cervical cancer, however, is the most prevalent among these.

The highly contagious nature of HPV cannot be overstated, with a single case potentially spreading to 12-18 other individuals. Transmission rates far surpass those of influenza and chickenpox. Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, conjunctivitis, and rash. If left untreated, advanced stages of HPV can lead to severe complications such as laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, encephalitis, meningitis, otitis media, gastrointestinal ulcers, corneal ulcers, immunosuppression, and even death.

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