During the month of October Breast Cancer is frequently highlighted in the press with many charity events taking place throughout Dubai but along with Breast Cancer we must not forget the second most common killer of women worldwide – Cervical Cancer. Most cervical cancers are caused by the sexually transmitted infection human papillomavirus (HPV).

For Expats relocating from countries such as Britain, governments are taking steps to reduce the occurrence of this dreadful disease by carrying out national immunization programs in schools for girls aged 9 to 18 years old. This too is beginning to take place in government schools throughout the UAE however in private schools (where expat children attend) this immunization program does not take place. So when relocating to Dubai it is important to add this vaccine to your list of immunization requirements to get done at your local GP in Dubai.

The vaccine consists of three injections that should ideally be given over a period of six months. The cost of the vaccine ranges between Dhs 500 and Dhs 900 for each of three doses. Two vaccines are available: Gardasil and Cervarix. Both provide nearly 100 per cent protection from human papillomavirus types 16 and 18 which cause about 70 per cent of cervical cancers. Gardasil also guards against HPV types 6 and 11. It is important for girls to receive the vaccine before they have sexual contact and are exposed to HPV. Once a girl or woman has been infected with HPV, the vaccine may not be as effective.

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