The introduction of HPV vaccines in Brazil

advances and challenges

Abstract

The impact of the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection all over the world is considerable. Its importance as a public health issue is demonstrated by its high frequency, association to uterine cancer (mostly), and clinical implications, besides the psychological impact on the affected people⁽¹⁾. More than one of two women have been exposed to HPV throughout life; 10% have the virus in its chronic form, and, among these, one of five women has a chance of developing uterine cancer without screening tests or in case, the examination is flawed^(2,3). It is worth mentioning that uterine cervix cancer usually affects women aged around 40 years, at a time when their family, professional, and social responsibilities are significant⁽⁴⁾. [...]