The Importance of HPV Vaccination
Cervical cancer remains a significant health threat to women worldwide, including in Bangladesh. However, modern medicine has become one of the most preventable cancers, thanks to vaccines targeting the human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer.
In this article, we dive deep into Gardasil, the leading cervical cancer vaccine in Bangladesh, explaining its science, benefits, dosage, safety profile, and pricing in Bangladesh — equipping parents, young adults, and healthcare professionals with all the knowledge needed to protect themselves and their loved ones.
What Is Cervical Cancer and Why Is HPV So Important?
Cervical cancer originates in the cervix, the narrow lower part of the uterus. It is almost always caused by persistent infection with high-risk HPV types, mainly HPV 16 and 18, which account for approximately 70% of all cervical cancer cases globally.
HPV is a highly contagious virus spread primarily through sexual contact. While most HPV infections clear naturally without causing harm, persistent infections with high-risk types can lead to abnormal cell changes and, eventually, cancer.
Gardasil: The Quadrivalent HPV Vaccine
What Is Gardasil?
Gardasil is a quadrivalent HPV vaccine designed to protect against four key HPV types:
- HPV 16 and 18: Responsible for most cervical, vulvar, vaginal, and anal cancers.
- HPV 6 and 11: The leading cause of genital warts (condyloma acuminate).
Manufactured using Saccharomyces cerevisiae (a yeast-based process), Gardasil contains an amorphous aluminium hydroxyphosphate sulfate (AAHS) adjuvant that boosts immune response with 225 μg per dose.
Gardasil contains no viral DNA, making it non-infectious and safe.
Indications: Who Should Receive Gardasil?
Gardasil is approved for:
- Girls and women aged 9 through 26 to prevent:
- Cervical, vulvar, vaginal, and anal cancers are caused by HPV types 16 and 18.
- Genital warts caused by HPV 6 and 11.
- Precancerous lesions such as Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN), Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN), Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VaIN), and Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (AIN).
- Boys and men aged 9 through 26 to prevent:
- Anal cancer caused by HPV 16 and 18.
- Genital warts caused by HPV 6 and 11.
- Precancerous anal lesions (AIN).
Dosage and Administration
Gardasil is administered as three 0.5 ml intramuscular injections, usually given in the upper arm or thigh muscle, following this schedule:
Dose Timing
- First dose: On the chosen date
- Second dose: 2 months after the first
- Third dose: 6 months after the first
Completing the 3-dose series within 12 months is ideal, but some flexibility exists:
- The second dose can be at least 1 month after the first.
- Third dose at least 3 months after the second.
Important Instructions and Safety Information
- Prefilled syringes require no dilution.
- Shake well before administration to ensure a white, cloudy suspension.
- Check visually for particulates or discolouration; discard if present.
- Only single-use syringes — discard after use.
Contraindications and Precautions
- Do not vaccinate individuals allergic to any vaccine component.
- Watch for hypersensitivity symptoms after vaccination; avoid further doses if present.
- Vaccines may not protect all recipients; it is not a treatment for existing HPV infections or related diseases.
- Mild illnesses like low-grade fever or upper respiratory infections are not contraindications.
- Immunocompromised individuals (e.g., HIV-positive or immunosuppressive therapy) may have reduced immune response.
- Use caution in patients with bleeding disorders due to potential injection-site bleeding.
- Observe for 15 minutes post-vaccination to monitor for syncope (fainting), which can occasionally lead to injury.
Side Effects of Gardasil
Gardasil has a strong safety profile, with side effects mostly limited to mild injection-site reactions:
- Widespread: redness, pain, swelling
- Common: itching, fever, muscle pain
- Rare: syncope, transient seizure-like activity linked to fainting
Cervical Cancer Vaccine Price in Bangladesh
Available from Pledge to Protect:
- Gardasil (0.5 ml prefilled vial): BDT 8,200 per dose
- Complete 3-dose series: Approximately BDT 24,600
- Nationwide delivery is available, ensuring accessibility across Bangladesh.
Cervical cancer vaccine in Bangladesh
Myths vs Facts About Gardasil and HPV Vaccine
Many myths surround the Gardasil and HPV vaccine, but it’s essential to know the facts. Some people wrongly believe that the vaccine can cause HPV infection or cervical cancer; however, Gardasil contains no viral DNA and cannot cause disease or cancer. Another common misconception is that vaccination encourages early sexual activity, but research shows no increase in risky behaviour after receiving the vaccine. It’s also a myth that only girls need the vaccine—boys benefit as well by preventing HPV-related diseases and reducing virus transmission. Lastly, some think the vaccine is unnecessary if a person is already sexually active. However, Gardasil can still protect against HPV types they haven’t encountered yet, making vaccination beneficial at any eligible age.
FAQs of Cervical cancer vaccine in Bangladesh
Q: Can Gardasil be given during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A: While animal studies show no harm, vaccination is generally postponed during pregnancy. It is safe during breastfeeding.
Q: Is Gardasil part of Bangladesh’s national immunization program?
A: Currently, it is available only through private healthcare providers and trusted suppliers like Pledge to Protect.
Q: Can Gardasil be administered with other vaccines?
A: Yes, it can be given simultaneously with vaccines like hepatitis B, meningococcal, tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis (Tdap), and polio vaccines.
Q: What if a dose is missed?
A: Complete the remaining doses as soon as possible, following the minimum intervals.
Take Action: Protect Your Loved Ones Today
Cervical cancer can be prevented, and the HPV vaccine is your best defense. Bangladesh’s parents, guardians, and healthcare professionals can now access Gardasil through reliable suppliers like Pledge to Protect. Don’t wait. Protect your children today.
- Call for consultation: 01844-245339
Our expert team at National Hospital Chattogram is ready to help with vaccine guidance and administration.
Final Thought
Vaccination combined with regular cervical screening can virtually eliminate cervical cancer. By choosing Gardasil, you invest in a healthier future for generations.
