The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is sexually transmitted. Almost everyone is infected with the virus at some point, which is usually cleared by the body. But not all bodies do this and if someone has a high-risk variant, cancer can develop. Some young women with HPV will therefore not be blessed with a body that clears the virus itself.
Small percentage of young women get cancer
According to gynecologist Ruud Bekkers, there are several reasons why women do not receive an invitation before the age of 30. For example, 25 percent of women under 30 are HPV positive, but only a very small percentage of them actually develop cancer. Of women with cervical cancer, 6 percent are younger than 30 years old. Last year there were a total of 50 women. Bekkers also expects that the recent HPV vaccination campaign will lead to 25 women in the coming year. In addition, there are also risks with treatment against HPV, such as an increased risk of premature birth later or children with a disability.
Unnecessary HPV treatment
All kinds of reasons why, according to the gynecologist, careful consideration should be given to whether earlier testing for HPV is a good idea. “One does not dare to wait for a serious preliminary stage. The woman then becomes restless, and so does the doctor. This means that many women can be treated unnecessarily and that can be quite burdensome.” Bekkers also advocates ensuring that all people in their thirties participate before the population screening is expanded, because currently only half of these women have a smear test. to decrease.
Better information about HPV
Hulshorst and Meijer do not agree with everything and believe it is necessary that young women receive better information about HPV, for example on social media. This information should mainly focus on the symptoms and when it is wise to contact your GP.
By: National Healthcare Guide / Johanne Levinsky
