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Health For Mzansi

HPV vaccinations: Hey parents, listen carefully

A gynaecologist explains the dangers of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and why parents should urgently consider getting their daughters vaccinated at all government schools

by Noluthando Ngcakani
23rd February 2023
in Conversations, Podcast
Reading Time: 4 mins read
A A
HPV vaccinations: Hey parents, listen carefully

In this episode of the Health For Mzansi podcast, Western Cape gynaecologist Dr Michelle Bryan unpacks HPV vaccinations. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi

On this episode of the Health For Mzansi podcast, a friend in crisis pleads with parents to ensure that their children are vaccinated against HPV. The Integrated School Health Programme with the joint efforts of the departments of health, basic education and social development has a Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccination Programme running in South Africa.

HPV is a very common virus. The virus lives on the skin and can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. This week, Dr Michelle Bryan, a gynaecologist at the Paarl Hospital, shares her insights on HPV vaccinations.

Bryan says that HPV viruses No 16 and 18 are responsible for most HPV-related cancers. Some of the other high-risk HPV types are responsible for the remainder of cervical cancer cases.

Dr Michelle Bryan unpacks HPV vaccinations in Mzansi. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi

Parents: listen up

The vaccine is provided free of charge every year to girls between Grades 4 and 7 in all government schools.

“The reason why we are encouraging children to get the HPV vaccination is because of the huge threat. It is an international problem and we want to help people prevent the problem. HPV is the acronym for human papillomavirus and there are about 100 different types of them and what they do is that they cause warts,” says Bryan.

Some strains of HPV cause genital warts in men and women. Close to 80% of cervical cancers are caused by HPV.

“There are a few strains that are high risk and a few that are low risk. It’s the higher risk ones that we’re worried about.

“Specifically, number 16 and number 18 and five others are high risk. Essentially, what they do is, is that they can cause cancer. The areas where they can cause cancer if you are exposed to them are the cervix, the vagina, the vulva, the anus, the penis and the back of the throat.”

How HPV vaccination protects your child

The function of the HPV vaccine is prevention, says Bryan.

“If someone is exposed to it, it cannot progress to cancer and it has been shown to be highly effective. The best time to give this vaccination is to somebody that is pre-being exposed to it. HPV is transmitted through sexual contact, not necessarily through penetration but any form of contact, it is, therefore, essential they have it before they have sex for the first time.”

Listen to the full interview on Sisters Without Shame 

Spotify: Click here to listen on Spotify (all mobile and other devices). 

Apple Podcasts: Click here to listen on any Apple device.

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Want to connect with Sisters Without shame? 

To send an SOS to Sisters Without Shame, email hello@healthformzansi. Alternatively, send a WhatsApp to 076 132 0454.

ALSO LISTEN: Making oral sex safe again with a glove of love

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Tags: Cancervaccinationyoung girls
Noluthando Ngcakani

Noluthando Ngcakani

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HIV and initiation: Supporting boys through cultural rites Security fails as gangs target Eastern Cape clinics Dr Makanya blends spiritual healing with art therapy Canola oil: A heart-healthy choice for your kitchen No more pain! Tackle the torment of toothaches How smoking causes harmful bacteria in your mouth Discover delicious, healthy dishes that will make your heart sing Rediscover the joy of creamy pap with chicken livers