Title: Prospect of HPV Vaccine and the Rising Incidences of Cervical Cancer: What Is the Missing Link?
Authors: Onoriode Benjamin Akpobasa, Enimienlen Judith Okougbegun Aminat Ali
Volume: 9
Issue: 12
Pages: 391-398
Publication Date: 2025/12/28
Abstract:
Background: Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among gynecological cancers. Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, play a role in causing most cervical cancer. It is one of the most preventable human cancers because of its slow progression, cytologically identifiable precursors, and effective treatments if detected early. Methods: Six databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Embase, Science Direct, and Cochrane libraries) were systematically searched for relevant articles published from 2015 to 2021. Articles were screened following the PRISMA guidelines, and those meeting the study's inclusion criteria were retained for review. Quality assessment of included studies was conducted using a modified Joanna Briggs Institute's Critical Appraisal Checklist. Findings: Despite this possibility, there are still many missing links, primarily due to inappropriate use of the vaccine (after being exposed to sexual activities) and underutilization caused by low HPV vaccine coverage, low awareness and uptake of the vaccine, poor acceptability, safety concerns, and vaccine failure, particularly among HIV individuals. Nurses have a major role to play in advocacy for increased uptake of the HPV vaccine among adolescents. Recommendation: Therefore, nurses must improve their interpersonal relationship with their client and render sound counseling to the adolescent boys and girls who are supposed to benefit from the HPV vaccine so they will not be scared away by negative attitudes.