Ireland and the UK are currently on high alert due to rising cases of a ‘mystery’ virus, which has raised concerns about the potential resurgence of human papillomavirus (HPV-Linked Cancer)-related diseases.
Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) has launched a comprehensive Cervical Cancer Elimination Action Plan to reduce cervical cancer rates significantly by 2040.
Dr Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer of HSE, emphasized that “for most people, cervical cancer is preventable,” noting that over 90% of cervical cancers are linked to HPV infections.
In Ireland, the incidence of cervical cancer has been declining, with recent data showing a rate of 10.1 cases per 100,000 women in 2022, a significant drop from 15.8 cases in 2008.
This progress is attributed to the successful implementation of the Cervical Check program and the HPV vaccination initiative, which began in schools in 2020 and was extended to boys in 2019.
However, disparities remain; nearly half of all cervical cancers occur in individuals who have not participated in regular screening programs.
The Republic’s HSE issued an update saying, “Flu is circulating in the community, and it will continue to circulate over the coming weeks. Influenza A(H1)pdm09 is the predominant virus circulating, with influenza A(H3) and B viruses also detected at lower levels.”
“Unfortunately, every winter we see rises in certain infections, including seasonal flu and winter vomiting (norovirus).
While for many, such illnesses are unpleasant but relatively mild, for some people, especially the very young or those who are older and some with underlying medical conditions, these infections can be very serious.
To protect ourselves and those vulnerable adults and children in our lives and to support our health and care services, we must do everything we can to reduce the risk of the spread of infection.”
Meanwhile, in the UK, approximately 3,200 new cervical cancer cases are reported annually, with almost all linked to high-risk HPV strains. The situation is exacerbated by a notable increase in HPV-associated cancers beyond cervical cancer, including anal and head and neck cancers.
The latter has seen a dramatic rise, with rates increasing by 30% per decade. In response to alarming trends, health authorities are urging greater awareness and vaccination uptake as effective preventive measures.
The Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK organization has launched campaigns to promote HPV vaccination among school-aged children, highlighting vaccination as a crucial tool for preventing HPV-related cancers.
They stress that “prevention is always better than cure,” underscoring the importance of proactive health measures.
Recent reports indicate that there are approximately 641 new HPV-associated cancer cases diagnosed annually in Ireland with an estimated 196 related deaths each year—many of which could be prevented through vaccination efforts.
The World Health Organization (WHO) supports these initiatives, advocating for global vaccination strategies to combat HPV-related cancers effectively.
As both Ireland and the UK navigate this public health challenge, health officials continue to emphasize the importance of vaccination and regular screening.
Dr Caroline Mason Hohan from HSE noted that while progress has been made, equitable access to healthcare services is essential for achieving the goal of eliminating cervical cancer.
With vigilance against rising HPV cases and commitment to preventive health strategies, both nations aim to mitigate the impact of this ‘mystery’ virus and protect public health effectively.