For the National Federation of Colleges of Medical Gynecology (FNCGM), it could reduce the number of cancers linked to human papillomaviruses.
Extend vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) to boys aged 11 to 14? Gynecologists are for. In a statement sent to AFP and relayed by BFM TVthe FNCGM (National Federation of Colleges of Medical Gynecology) is in favor of an extension of the vaccination against this virus associated with cervical cancer.
A consultation launched by the HAS
At the beginning of November, the High Authority of Health launched a broad consultation on the vaccination of boys. Today, it is recommended for girls aged 11 to 14, and for young homosexuals. The HAS proposal aims to vaccinate all boys aged 11 to 14 regardless of their sexual orientation, with the possibility of catch-up up to 19 years old. The objective is to reduce the transmission of HPV and reduce the risk of cancer of the cervix.
The idea is shared by the FNCGM. “Universal vaccination (girls and boys aged 11 to 14, with catch-up until the age of 19) would reduce the number of cancers due to HPV, through greater coverage of the population”, affirms its president, Dr Pia de Reilhac in the press release.
Other health professionals must decide by November 27, but also patient associations, manufacturers and public institutions. At the end of this period, a HAS commission will analyze all the responses before issuing an official recommendation.
HPV isn’t just linked to cervical cancer
In France, HPV infection is very common, and is the cause of nearly 70% of cases of cervical cancers. But these viruses can cause other cancerous lesions : in total, in 2015, more than 6,300 cancers associated with HPV were diagnosed. They affected the cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, penis, but also the mouth and throat.
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