Preventing Secondary Cancers: The Role of HPV and HBV Vaccines

Viruses are silent contributors to many cancers, often overlooked compared to lifestyle or genetic causes. Among them, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) stand out as key risk factors linked to several types of cancers. To prevent these secondary cancers from developing later due to viral infections, their relationship with HPV and HBV vaccines must be understood.

HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, known for causing cervical cancer. It can also lead to oropharyngeal, anal, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. Over time, the cellular changes triggered by the virus can turn cancerous. HBV is a virus that can cause chronic liver infection. The inflammation and damage caused to the liver can lead to hepatocellular carcinoma, which is a common type of liver cancer. 

When to vaccinate?

The most effective way to prevent HPV and HBV is vaccination. Health-care professionals suggest HPV vaccination for adolescents around the age of 11 or 12 to help protect them before exposure to the virus. Vaccinators should follow up on vaccination until the age of 26, and in some cases, adults can also benefit from it until the age of 45. This is for high-risk individuals and weak immune systems. Cancer survivors, specifically those treated for HPV-related cancers, can prevent new infections and recurrence with the help of vaccination. 

Vaccinating infants is crucial to preventing HBV. Early immunization helps avoid chronic infections and lowers the risk of developing liver cancer later in life. Healthcare providers can suggest that patients undergoing cancer treatment or who have certain risk factors take the HBV vaccine.

HPV vaccine and cancer prevention

The HPV vaccine stimulates the body’s immune system and produces antibodies for particular HPV types commonly associated with cancer. It is efficient for the prevention of cervical cancer by reducing precancerous lesions and invasive cancers in vaccinated individuals. In addition to cervical cancer, it also protects against oropharyngeal cancers. 

HBV vaccine for liver cancer prevention

The HBV vaccine helps prevent hepatitis B infection and liver cancer. By avoiding initial infection, the vaccine prevents chronic liver damage and inflammation that can cause hepatocellular carcinoma. Vaccination can help prevent liver cancer, as it is a public health threat. Due to the long-term impact of HBV vaccination, it has reduced HBV-related liver cancers. This shows the advantages of the preventive strategy. 

Vaccines and cancer care

In cancer care, introducing HPV and HBV vaccines requires careful consideration of safety, timing, and coordination with the medical team. For long-term health management, vaccination plays an important role in protecting patients and survivors. Although cancer treatment may delay vaccination, many patients can safely receive it during or after therapy. Oncologists and physicians must examine the individual risk factors together to develop the vaccination schedule. This ensures that the patients get the safety required against future cancers without disturbing the ongoing treatment.

HPV and HBV vaccines play a powerful role in preventing various secondary cancers. The viral infections of these secondary cancers are focused on by offering a reduction in cervical, liver, head, and neck cancers. It offers long-term advantages for health. Vaccination must be recommended for high-risk groups through public health for cancer prevention. These tools help in immunization with long-term health and a reduced number of diagnoses.