2023-09-16 13:29:04
Increase in Cervical Cancer Cases Prompts HPV Vaccination Program for Female Students
September 16, 2023 – In response to the alarming rise in the number of cervical cancer cases in Thailand, the Ministry of Public Health is taking action to protect young girls from this deadly disease. Dr. Chonnan Srikaew, the Minister of Public Health, announced today that there have been approximately 2,000 deaths per year caused by cervical cancer, making it the second most common disease among Thai women, following breast cancer.
Cervical cancer is primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. However, it can be prevented through vaccination, which is recommended to be administered before the individual becomes sexually active. To address this public health concern, the Ministry of Public Health plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Education to initiate a vaccination program targeting female students in grades 5 and 6.
Since 2017, Thailand has been providing a 2-dose HPV vaccination service for female students in Grade 5 (currently aged 17). However, due to a temporary shortage of vaccines during the COVID-19 outbreak in 2019-2022, the target group in Grade 5 at that time, who are currently aged 13-15, did not receive the vaccination. Recognizing the need to prioritize the vaccination campaign, the Ministry of Public Health has made HPV vaccination a part of its “Complete Cancer” initiative.
The Department of Disease Control has been tasked with expediting the vaccination guidelines for girls aged 11-20. Additionally, the Provincial Public Health Office will assess the number of target groups, while the National Health Security Office (NHSO) will accelerate the procurement of additional vaccines. The goal is to administer at least 1 million doses of the HPV vaccine within 100 days.
Dr. Chonnan Srikaew stated, “The injection will have two parts: children in grades 5-6 will be injected through educational institutions, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, similar to the previous COVID vaccinations. The other group includes children outside the education system, as well as women aged 18-20 who have completed Mathayom 6. They will receive the injection at a healthcare facility.”
The Ministry of Public Health hopes that this vaccination program will significantly reduce the prevalence of cervical cancer and ultimately save lives. By prioritizing the health and well-being of young girls, Thailand aims to combat this silent killer and create a healthier future for its female population.]
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