St. George’s University Debunks HPV Vaccine Myths: A Step Towards Cervical Cancer Prevention in South Korea

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 January 2025 – Cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer among women globally, remains a critical yet often overlooked health issue. The HPV Center reported over 3000 Korean women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually and more than 1000 die from the disease. Cervical cancer is the ninth most common cancer among women in South Korea and the third most prevalent among women aged 15 to 44.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is one of the most significant advancements in public health, offering effective protection against cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. However, despite its proven efficacy, myths and misinformation often hinder its acceptance and use. St. George’s University (SGU), School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies highlights the common myths about the HPV vaccine and the facts that dispel them.

HPV Vaccination is Only for Women

While cervical cancer predominantly affects women, HPV is also linked to other cancers, including throat cancers, which can affect all genders. Vaccinating boys and girls helps reduce the overall spread of HPV and provides protection against related health risks. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends vaccinating children aged 9-14 for maximum effectiveness before potential exposure to the virus.

HPV Vaccines Are Unsafe

Decades of research and millions of vaccinations worldwide have proven the HPV vaccine to be safe. The most common side effects, such as mild soreness at the injection site or low-grade fever, are temporary and far outweighed by the vaccine’s benefits. Regulatory bodies like the Food and Drug Administration and WHO rigorously monitor the safety of HPV vaccines to ensure public trust.

Only Sexually Active Individuals Need the Vaccine

HPV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact but can also spread through non-sexual skin-to-skin contact, shared personal items, or infected surfaces. In rare cases, it may pass from a pregnant individual to their baby during childbirth. These varied transmission pathways highlight vaccination as the most effective way to prevent HPV-related diseases.

Regular Screening and No Family History of Cancer Eliminate the Need for Vaccination

While pap smears and HPV tests are critical for detecting early signs of cervical abnormalities, they do not prevent HPV infection. The HPV vaccine and regular screenings work hand-in-hand. The vaccine prevents many types of HPV infections, while screenings ensure any existing issues are caught early.

Unlike some cancers that have a strong genetic component, cervical cancer is primarily caused by an HPV infection rather than inherited predisposition. HPV can be contracted through various means, making vaccination essential for everyone, regardless of family history.

Educating and Empowering Communities

Public health education is key to dispelling myths and increasing HPV vaccine uptake. The HPV vaccine represents a remarkable opportunity to prevent cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. As a global institution committed to advancing healthcare education and awareness, SGU encourages proactive measures such as vaccination and regular screening to significantly reduce the burden of HPV-related illnesses. By educating future healthcare leaders, SGU strives to create a ripple effect, enabling graduates to champion awareness and prevention efforts worldwide.

For more information on the programs and tracks available through SGU School of Medicine, visit SGU’s website.
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About St. George’s University School of Medicine

Founded in 1976, St. George’s University (SGU) is a center for academic excellence worldwide. With students and faculty drawn from more than 150 countries*, SGU is truly an international institution, with a uniquely global perspective. The SGU School of Medicine is accredited by the Grenada Medical and Dental Council which has been recognized by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME). The school offers a four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree program. Students can also enter the MD degree program from many education systems around the world via the five-, six-, or seven-year tracks. SGU has a large network of 75+ affiliated hospitals and health centers in the US and UK, with the unique opportunity for students to begin their medical career in Grenada or the UK.

* Based on the number of students who have completed the Doctor of Medicine program from 1981-2024.