11 May 2007

BRUSSELS – The human papillomavirus  (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and is often contracted within the first few years after the start of sexual activity.

That is why it is necessary to vaccinate young people in time, the National Health Council has now advised.

There is a clear link between cervical cancer, HPV infection, tumours in the genital region and genital warts. In Belgium about 70 percent of cases of cervical cancer can be traced to a form of HPV. An antiviral vaccine recently became available in Belgium.

On the basis of the available scientific facts, the National Health Council recommends that girls between the ages of 10 and 15 be vaccinated preventively.

Women between the ages of 14 and 26 who have not been vaccinated preventively can ask their physician for a vaccine, regardless of whether they are sexually active or not.

In addition the National Health Council recommends that systematic cervical cancer screenings be organised.

[Copyright Expatica News 2007]

Subject: Belgian news