During a press conference held by the National Health Commission on October 18, a journalist raised an important question regarding the connection between HPV vaccines and cervical cancer prevention. The reporter asked, “With various HPV vaccines now available on the market, how effective are these vaccines in preventing cervical cancer? Does receiving the vaccine guarantee that one will never develop cervical cancer?”

In response, Dr. Wei Lihui, the Chief Physician of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Peking University People’s Hospital, explained, “HPV vaccines are designed to block the persistent infection of high-risk HPV types, which in turn significantly reduces the incidence of cervical cancer. There is a wealth of clinical research—both pre-market and post-market real-world data—that demonstrates the high protective efficacy of the five HPV vaccines currently available worldwide. In China, we have bivalent, quadrivalent, and nine-valent vaccines. The bivalent vaccine targets HPV types 16 and 18, which are the most common types associated with cervical cancer. Both the quadrivalent and nine-valent vaccines can effectively prevent over 70% of cervical cancer cases. Additionally, these vaccines also offer some protection against genital warts and cancers related to the vagina, anus, and perianal region.”

Dr. Wei emphasized, “According to World Health Organization recommendations, all types of HPV vaccination can effectively prevent cervical cancer. The best results are seen in women who have never engaged in sexual activity and are therefore not infected with HPV. A study conducted in Sweden from 2006 to 2017, which involved HPV vaccinations for 1.7 million women aged 10 to 30, showed remarkable results. Among girls vaccinated before the age of 17, cervical cancer cases dropped by 88% by the time they reached adulthood compared to unvaccinated peers. For women aged 17 to 30, the reduction was 53%. This clearly illustrates that HPV vaccination can significantly prevent cervical cancer. Given the excellent protective effects of all three types of HPV vaccines, eligible women should choose based on the available vaccine options, their financial capacity, and personal preferences to facilitate early prevention.”

Dr. Wei also highlighted a crucial point: “It’s important to note that HPV vaccines are preventive only and do not offer treatment. Therefore, even after vaccination, regular cervical cancer screenings are essential, as some HPV types are not included in the vaccine, and some severe cases of cervical cancer may not be related to HPV infection at all. This underscores the necessity of consistent cervical cancer screenings, regardless of vaccination status.”