Evaluating human papillomavirus vaccination programs in Canada: should provincial healthcare pay for voluntary adult vaccination?
2008

Evaluating HPV Vaccination Programs in Canada

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Marco Llamazares, Robert J Smith

Primary Institution: The University of Ottawa

Hypothesis

Can a childhood-only vaccination program eradicate targeted types of HPV?

Conclusion

Eradication of targeted types of HPV is feasible if adult vaccination is included in the program.

Supporting Evidence

  • Vaccination programs in Canada have begun targeting school children aged 9–13.
  • Eradication of targeted types is possible with a modest level of adult vaccination.
  • The model indicates that even with high childhood vaccination rates, adult vaccination is crucial for eradication.

Takeaway

If we vaccinate both kids and some adults against HPV, we can get rid of the virus. It's like making sure everyone washes their hands to keep germs away.

Methodology

A mathematical model was developed to evaluate the effectiveness of childhood vaccination supplemented by voluntary adult vaccination.

Limitations

The model makes several simplifying assumptions, including a lack of age-dependency in sexual partner rates and uniform age of sexual debut.

Participant Demographics

The study focuses on female children and adult women in Canada.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-8-114

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