Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Evaluation Program

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Evaluation Program
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Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Evaluation Program Overview of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Program             The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) program was developed to prevent and control HPV infections by introducing interventions such as awareness campaigns, vaccinations, and mass education. More so, the need for routine screening was also emphasized to enable early detection of the virus and enable prompt treatment of any HPV-related diseases. HPV is known to cause several diseases and conditions in human beings, including cervical cancer and genital warts that can be fatal if not treated early.             The HPV Vaccination Program provides vaccines that primarily target young girls and women between 9 and 26 years who are at the highest risk of contracting the virus (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). More recently, young boys and men have also been introduced to the HPV program, as more studies show that they are also at risk of certain HPV-related cancers. The program relies on school-based and healthcare provider interventions in the targeted vaccination to increase its efficacy.             Studies have shown that HPV programs successfully reduce the prevalence of infections and diseases related to HPV. Brotherton et al. (2011) found that in Australia, similar HPV programs have successfully reduced HPV-related diseases since the onset of the country’s vaccination program. Further, an analysis conducted by Drolet et al. (2015) on several national HPV programs showed significant success achieved in reducing the occurrence of new infections in countries with over 50% of females vaccinated. Apart from that, McPhail et al. (2013) further found that adolescents in developing countries preferred a process of integration of the procedures, with a keen interest in getting detailed information about the HPV vaccine. Consequently, it was noted that new strategies are required based on the priorities at the local level when undertaking such national programs, thus considering the contexts and availability of resources. In line with this, Marty et al. (2013) further assessed the benefits of vaccinating boys and girls in Europe compared to the girls-only vaccination program. The results indicated a significant difference in the additional clinical benefits based on the reduced incidence of HPV-related genital warts and carcinomas.             The above studies show the importance of evaluation and the immense benefits that can be incurred by implementing them. Not only can the efficacy of the HPV programs be assessed and understood, but further interventions can also be introduced to improve their effectiveness. Additionally, it provides stakeholders with appropriate information to base their decisions based on the evidence presented by the program evaluations. Type of Evaluation and Justification