UAE Launches National HPV Vaccination and Screening Strategy
Comprehensive public health initiative targets cervical cancer reduction through vaccination and early screening.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) in the United Arab Emirates has initiated a significant public health effort aimed at diminishing the incidence of cervical cancer and other diseases associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV).
This initiative outlines a national strategy with a goal of vaccinating 90 percent of girls against HPV before they reach the age of 15 by the year 2030. Additionally, the strategy advocates for routine cervical cancer screenings for women starting at age 25.
As part of this proactive health strategy, MoHAP recommends that women aged between 25 and 65 undergo cervical cancer screenings every three to five years.
This recommendation is intended to facilitate early detection, thereby improving recovery prospects and reducing long-term health complications associated with late-stage cancer diagnoses.
This new initiative aligns with the UAE's broader public health aims to promote wellness and prevent communicable diseases.
The strategy is embedded within a comprehensive public health framework that emphasizes prevention, education, and advanced immunization technologies.
Notably, it coincides with the nation’s “Year of Community” initiative, which fosters collective responsibility for public health and collaboration among individuals, institutions, and society.
The Ministry has underscored the importance of instilling a culture of early screening and vaccination as pivotal to community health.
This focus is reflected in the UAE's broader vision of achieving a high quality of life and establishing a robust healthcare system.
According to data from the National Cancer Registry, cervical cancer ranks as the fifth most prevalent cancer among women in the UAE.
However, the national incidence rates are reported to be lower than the global average, a success attributed to the country's effective health policies.
As part of the nationwide strategy, the UAE is committed to investing in cutting-edge treatment options that align with international standards, emphasizing its dedication to global efforts to eradicate cervical cancer.
Since 2018, the UAE has been a pioneer in the region regarding HPV vaccination, having incorporated the HPV vaccine into its national immunization program for girls aged 13 to 14. In 2023, the vaccination program was expanded to include boys in the same age cohort, aimed at enhancing community protection and addressing HPV-related health challenges across genders.
The government has also received recognition from the World Health Organization for the effectiveness of its national immunization program, particularly regarding the integration of the HPV vaccine.
MoHAP’s strategic plan prioritizes health education and awareness about HPV and the significance of routine health checks.
The initiative underscores that fostering a culture of early screening and immunization is essential for enhancing community health in line with national standards for quality of life and promoting a thriving and healthy society.
This initiative outlines a national strategy with a goal of vaccinating 90 percent of girls against HPV before they reach the age of 15 by the year 2030. Additionally, the strategy advocates for routine cervical cancer screenings for women starting at age 25.
As part of this proactive health strategy, MoHAP recommends that women aged between 25 and 65 undergo cervical cancer screenings every three to five years.
This recommendation is intended to facilitate early detection, thereby improving recovery prospects and reducing long-term health complications associated with late-stage cancer diagnoses.
This new initiative aligns with the UAE's broader public health aims to promote wellness and prevent communicable diseases.
The strategy is embedded within a comprehensive public health framework that emphasizes prevention, education, and advanced immunization technologies.
Notably, it coincides with the nation’s “Year of Community” initiative, which fosters collective responsibility for public health and collaboration among individuals, institutions, and society.
The Ministry has underscored the importance of instilling a culture of early screening and vaccination as pivotal to community health.
This focus is reflected in the UAE's broader vision of achieving a high quality of life and establishing a robust healthcare system.
According to data from the National Cancer Registry, cervical cancer ranks as the fifth most prevalent cancer among women in the UAE.
However, the national incidence rates are reported to be lower than the global average, a success attributed to the country's effective health policies.
As part of the nationwide strategy, the UAE is committed to investing in cutting-edge treatment options that align with international standards, emphasizing its dedication to global efforts to eradicate cervical cancer.
Since 2018, the UAE has been a pioneer in the region regarding HPV vaccination, having incorporated the HPV vaccine into its national immunization program for girls aged 13 to 14. In 2023, the vaccination program was expanded to include boys in the same age cohort, aimed at enhancing community protection and addressing HPV-related health challenges across genders.
The government has also received recognition from the World Health Organization for the effectiveness of its national immunization program, particularly regarding the integration of the HPV vaccine.
MoHAP’s strategic plan prioritizes health education and awareness about HPV and the significance of routine health checks.
The initiative underscores that fostering a culture of early screening and immunization is essential for enhancing community health in line with national standards for quality of life and promoting a thriving and healthy society.
Translation:
Translated by AI
