Clinical therapeutics
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Clinical therapeutics · Jan 2014
ReviewThe Australian experience with the human papillomavirus vaccine.
The goal of this study was to review the current human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine program and its outcomes to date in Australia. ⋯ These findings from Australia should encourage other countries to follow suit, with the ultimate aim of translating treatment into reductions in HPV-related neoplasia globally. The greatest success from such an approach will only be realized when prophylactic vaccines are rolled out effectively, with high coverage and at affordable costs, to those areas of the world with the highest burden of disease. To achieve this outcome requires government endorsement and commitment; education of the community at large; realization of the safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity of the available prophylactic vaccines in reducing HPV-related infections and disease, especially neoplasia; and governments procuring vaccines at affordable prices through the various options now available (eg, support from the GAVI Alliance to eligible countries, tiered pricing, negotiation with pharmaceutical manufacturers). We have the tools to reach this goal, and it is time these tools were implemented.