Forum: Subsidise HPV vaccinations for women in late 20s to 40s

I am a family doctor who is very passionate about overall sexual wellness for both men and women. Recently, I was invited to speak at various International Women’s Day events focusing on women’s health. I shared about the human papillomavirus (HPV), cervical cancer prevention, sexual health, and making women’s health a priority.

I am in my 40s and believe more can be done for women in this age bracket concerning cervical cancer and HPV infection.

Cervical cancer remains the 10th most common cancer facing Singapore women and a lot more can be done.

In the course of my clinical work, I have seen many women who are exposed to pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions and most of them are in their late 20s to their late 40s.

Since cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, I hope that women in this age range can qualify for subsidised vaccinations too.

The vaccine is fully subsidised for all female Singaporeans aged between nine and 17, and partially subsidised for those aged between 18 and 26.

With HPV vaccinations and pap smears, and HPV tests, we can keep cervical cancer at bay.  We also need to do more for women who missed the national immunisation programme vaccinations. 

I hope the Government can give subsidies for HPV vaccinations for women in their late 20s to their 40s. This is the period where women are in the peak of their lives, be it career development or raising their families. 

It would be sad for them to be robbed of their fulfilling lives – when this cancer is highly preventable for older women too.

Angela Tan (Dr)