UAE Aims for 90% HPV Vaccination Rate Among Girls Ages 13-14 by 2030 to Combat Cervical Cancer
The UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention unveils a comprehensive strategy incorporating HPV vaccinations and early cancer screenings.
The United Arab Emirates plans to vaccinate 90% of girls aged 13 to 14 against the human papillomavirus (HPV) by 2030, as part of a national strategy aimed at eliminating cervical cancer.
This announcement was made by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) on Friday.
The comprehensive health initiative will not only prioritize the vaccination of girls but also expand HPV vaccination to boys and implement routine cervical cancer screenings for women starting at age 25. The strategy forms part of MoHAP's broader campaign to promote public health and prevent communicable diseases in the country.
Cervical cancer, primarily caused by HPV, is the fifth most common cancer affecting women in the UAE, according to records from the National Cancer Registry.
Despite its prevalence, the country has maintained incidence rates below the global average due to proactive preventive measures.
HPV consists of various strains of viruses that can lead to warts and, in certain cases, cancers, with cervical cancer being notably linked to specific high-risk types of the virus.
In a pioneering move, the UAE included the HPV vaccine in its national immunization program in 2018, initially targeting schoolgirls aged 13 to 14. This program was successfully expanded in 2023 to include boys, reflecting a commitment to community-wide health protection.
MoHAP clarified that the vaccination targets 90% of girls before the age of 15 by the stated deadline of 2030. Furthermore, the Ministry emphasizes the significance of routine cervical cancer screenings for women aged 25 to 65, recommending Pap smear tests every three to five years to facilitate early detection.
This approach is intended to improve recovery rates and alleviate stress on the healthcare system.
The initiative is integrated with the UAE's 'Year of Community' campaign, a focus on collective responsibility for health.
The government articulates that this preventive strategy, alongside promotion of early screening, is essential for fostering a healthier, resilient society.
Beyond vaccination and screening, the UAE's strategy encompasses provision of advanced treatments for HPV-related diseases, aligned with international medical standards, underpinning the UAE's commitment to global efforts aimed at cervical cancer elimination.
The HPV vaccine is administered intramuscularly, with a two-dose schedule recommended for individuals under 15, and a three-dose schedule for those aged 15 and above.
The vaccine is offered free of charge to Emirati nationals, while expatriates incur varying costs between Dh600 to Dh1100 per dose at private healthcare facilities.
The UAE's endeavors have drawn commendation from the World Health Organization (WHO), which recognizes the successful integration of the HPV vaccine into the nation's immunization framework.
MoHAP reiterated its commitment to align with global healthcare targets, particularly the WHO's strategy to eradicate cervical cancer as a public health concern.
This announcement was made by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) on Friday.
The comprehensive health initiative will not only prioritize the vaccination of girls but also expand HPV vaccination to boys and implement routine cervical cancer screenings for women starting at age 25. The strategy forms part of MoHAP's broader campaign to promote public health and prevent communicable diseases in the country.
Cervical cancer, primarily caused by HPV, is the fifth most common cancer affecting women in the UAE, according to records from the National Cancer Registry.
Despite its prevalence, the country has maintained incidence rates below the global average due to proactive preventive measures.
HPV consists of various strains of viruses that can lead to warts and, in certain cases, cancers, with cervical cancer being notably linked to specific high-risk types of the virus.
In a pioneering move, the UAE included the HPV vaccine in its national immunization program in 2018, initially targeting schoolgirls aged 13 to 14. This program was successfully expanded in 2023 to include boys, reflecting a commitment to community-wide health protection.
MoHAP clarified that the vaccination targets 90% of girls before the age of 15 by the stated deadline of 2030. Furthermore, the Ministry emphasizes the significance of routine cervical cancer screenings for women aged 25 to 65, recommending Pap smear tests every three to five years to facilitate early detection.
This approach is intended to improve recovery rates and alleviate stress on the healthcare system.
The initiative is integrated with the UAE's 'Year of Community' campaign, a focus on collective responsibility for health.
The government articulates that this preventive strategy, alongside promotion of early screening, is essential for fostering a healthier, resilient society.
Beyond vaccination and screening, the UAE's strategy encompasses provision of advanced treatments for HPV-related diseases, aligned with international medical standards, underpinning the UAE's commitment to global efforts aimed at cervical cancer elimination.
The HPV vaccine is administered intramuscularly, with a two-dose schedule recommended for individuals under 15, and a three-dose schedule for those aged 15 and above.
The vaccine is offered free of charge to Emirati nationals, while expatriates incur varying costs between Dh600 to Dh1100 per dose at private healthcare facilities.
The UAE's endeavors have drawn commendation from the World Health Organization (WHO), which recognizes the successful integration of the HPV vaccine into the nation's immunization framework.
MoHAP reiterated its commitment to align with global healthcare targets, particularly the WHO's strategy to eradicate cervical cancer as a public health concern.
