HPV Vaccine Effectiveness Against Cancer: Research on Millions of Patients
- Confirmations of teh efficacy and safety of the vaccine against cervical cancer (and not only).
- Quella da Papillomavirus umano (HPV) è l'infezione sessualmente trasmessa più diffusa in entrambi i sessi.
- The second Cochrane review analyzed evidence from 225 studies involving over 132 million people in various countries.
Confirmations of teh efficacy and safety of the vaccine against cervical cancer (and not only). the HPV virus is also responsible for 60-70% of oral carcinomas (whose cases are increasing)
8mila tumori ogni anni in Italia dovuti al virus
Table of Contents
Quella da Papillomavirus umano (HPV) è l’infezione sessualmente trasmessa più diffusa in entrambi i sessi. Alcuni dei 200 ceppi di virus Hpv,che si trasmette per via sessuale, hanno un ruolo chiave nell’insorgenza sia di tumori che di lesioni precancerose (condilomi genitali) maschili e femminili,mentre altri ceppi del virus sono innocui.
Secondo le stime più recenti in Italia ogni anno sono quasi 8mila i casi di cancro dovuti all’HPV
Le nuove revisioni confermano che la vaccinazione contro l’HPV può prevenire lo sviluppo della maggior parte di questi tumori, soprattutto se somministrata prima dell’inizio dell’attività sessuale (ma è
Utilità e sicurezza del vaccino: ulteriori nuove conferme
The frist Cochrane Library review included 60 studies with 157,414 participants. The authors found that all HPV vaccines were effective in preventing infections that can led to cancer and other HPV-related diseases, with no evidence of serious safety concerns. Becuase cancers caused by HPV can take many years to develop, most studies did not follow participants for a long enough period to measure their direct effects on cancer itself. However, the vaccines reduced precancerous changes in the cervix and other tissues in people aged 15 to 25, as well as the risk of anogenital warts.
Short-term side effects such as mild pain or swelling at the injection site were common, while serious side effects were rare and occurred at similar rates in both the vaccinated and control (i.e., unvaccinated) groups.
Vaccinare maschi e femmine prima del rapporto sessuale
The second Cochrane review analyzed evidence from 225 studies involving over 132 million people in various countries. The results show that HPV vaccination clearly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer, precancerous changes in the cervix (known as CIN2+ and CIN3+), and anogenital warts. The results come from studies of various types and with different follow-up periods. In particular, girls vaccinated by age 16 were 80% less likely to develop cervical cancer compared to unvaccinated girls. And the danger appears lower (even for precancerous alterations
A rise in cases of oral cancers (oropharynx, tonsils, base of the tongue) is largely attributable to Papillomavirus infection. Pain in the tongue or ulcers that do not heal, red or white spots in the mouth, sore throat, persistent hoarseness, pain or difficulty swallowing, swollen neck, or nasal congestion on one side or nosebleeds: these are the symptoms not to be overlooked (if they persist for more than three weeks) to arrive at a diagnosis quickly. Actually, when the disease is detected early, the chances of recovery are high, but too many patients discover the disease late.
What is the Italian “Sportello Cancro”?
The Italian “Sportello Cancro” (Cancer Information Desk) is a nationwide network of local offices providing free, comprehensive information and support to cancer patients and their families throughout Italy.
origins and Purpose
Established in 1986 by the Lega Italiana per la Lotta contro i Tumori (LILT - Italian League for the Fight Against Cancer), the Sportello Cancro initiative addresses a critical need for accessible and reliable cancer information. LILT identified a significant gap in support services for individuals navigating a cancer diagnosis and treatment. The desks aim to empower patients by providing them with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their care and to navigate the Italian healthcare system.
Services Offered
The Sportello Cancro offers a wide range of services, including:
- Information on cancer types: Detailed explanations of different cancers, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
- Guidance on rights and benefits: Assistance understanding patient rights within the Italian National Health Service (Servizio Sanitario nazionale – SSN) and available financial assistance programs.
- Psychological support: Access to trained volunteers and professionals offering emotional support and counseling.
- Practical advice: Help with navigating bureaucratic procedures, accessing specialized care, and finding support groups.
- Prevention information: Education on cancer prevention strategies and early detection methods.
National Network and Accessibility
As of December 31, 2025, LILT operates over 90 Sportello Cancro offices across Italy, located in hospitals, community centers, and LILT regional branches. The official LILT website provides a directory of all locations and contact information.Services are typically offered in person, by phone, and increasingly, through online platforms.
Funding and Operation
The Sportello Cancro network is primarily funded by LILT through donations, fundraising events, and partnerships with pharmaceutical companies and other organizations. The desks are staffed by a combination of trained volunteers, healthcare professionals, and LILT employees. LILT reported a total revenue of €14.8 million in 2023,with a significant portion allocated to the Sportello Cancro network and other patient support programs. (LILT 2023 Transparency Report)
The Sportello Cancro represents a vital resource for cancer patients and their families in Italy, providing crucial information, support, and advocacy during a challenging time.