Impact of the human papilloma vaccine on cervical cancer.

Abstract

During the last decade, research progress on cervical cancer has elucidated the role of human papilloma virus (HPV) in the pathogenesis of cervical cancer. Clinical trials on the viral-like particle HPV vaccines have good safety profiles and promising efficacy in preventing genital warts, cervical neoplasia, and cervical cancer. The implementation of the HPV vaccine is a tremendous milestone in our effort toward preventing cervical cancers. However, screening programs will continue to serve as a critical component in prevention due to the limitations of the current vaccines. The greatest impact in cervical cancer incidence worldwide requires improved health care access to underserved areas. Advances are needed to develop single-dose, heat-stable, needle-free, and affordable formulations of the HPV vaccine to overcome the socioeconomic barriers associated with this disease.