2023-07-20 11:22:01
Title: Free Cervical Cancer Vaccination Services for Children Under 18 Years Old Offered by Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute and Chulalongkorn Hospital
Subtitle: Increasing Cervical Cancer Rates in Thailand Heightens Importance of Vaccination
Date: July 5, 2023
Cervical cancer, a disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), has become a significant concern in Thailand. To combat this rising issue, the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute and Chulalongkorn Hospital have announced the provision of free cervical cancer or HPV vaccination sites for children under 18 years old. The primary objective of this initiative is to ensure early detection and prevention among women, given that cervical cancer ranks second among all cancers in Thailand.
The HPV virus is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and affects the genital and anal regions. More than 100 strains of HPV are known, with HPV-related diseases most commonly affecting women, often leading to cancer in the female reproductive organs. The gravity of this disease is emphasized by the fact that it can be fatal. Alarmingly, the number of cervical cancer patients in Thailand continues to increase each year, with approximately 10,000 newly diagnosed cases and 14 deaths recently reported.
Regular screenings and early detection are crucial in preventing cervical cancer, as highlighted by healthcare experts. Additionally, vaccination against HPV infection can significantly reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine can be administered to individuals aged 9 to 45 and is recommended for both men and women to prevent the transmission and future carrier status of this disease.
Apart from cervical cancer, the HPV virus has been linked to the development of various other forms of cancer, including vulvar cancer, vaginal cancer, oral cancer, penis cancer, pharyngeal cancer, and anal cancer. Risk factors for contracting HPV include engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners, early pregnancy, having multiple children, and smoking.
To facilitate access to the HPV vaccine, the following free vaccination points have been established:
1. Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society:
– Registration Period: July 18, 2023, at 09:00 to August 22, 2023, or until capacity is reached.
– Eligibility: Thai girls aged 12 to 18 years who have either never received the vaccine or have received only two doses.
– Registration Details: Registration must be completed three days in advance. Participants should arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled appointment, and failing to arrive on time may result in forfeiting the right to receive the vaccine.
– Additional Conditions: Those who have previously received HPV type 2 or 4 vaccines can register after a six-month gap from the first dose. If the first dose of HPV vaccine is administered before the age of 15, one additional dose can be received.
– Vaccine Service Dates: August 4, 7, 8, 9, 11, and 25, 2023.
– Service Location: Immunotherapy and Travel Medicine Clinic, Ground Floor, Rama IV Road, Pathum Wan, Bangkok.
2. Chulalongkorn Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society:
– Registration Period: July 10, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. or until capacity is reached.
– Eligibility: Thai children, females, and males aged 9 to 15 years who have not received any HPV vaccine before.
– Registration Details: Original ID card/birth certificate and a personal vaccination book are required during registration. New patients must register in advance.
– Vaccine Service Dates: July 16, 22-23, August 5-6, and September 2-3, 2023.
– Service Location: Bhumisirimangklanusorn Building, 13th Floor.
It is essential to recognize the severity of cervical cancer and take proactive measures to prevent its spread. The Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute and Chulalongkorn Hospital, in collaboration with the Thai Red Cross Society, are joining forces to address this pressing health concern. For further information on the free HPV vaccination services, individuals are encouraged to contact the respective institutions directly.]
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