The HPV (Human papillomavirus) vaccines (人类乳头瘤病毒疫苗) prove to be effective in preventing HPV infections. It also reduces the risks of cervical cancer, anal cancer, vaginal cancer, and so forth. Among these, cervical cancer is the 4th most common cancer among women. By 2022, 125 countries have included HPV vaccines in their national routine for girls and 47 for boys.
Expanding HPV vaccine availability in China
At present, HPV vaccination is not a national routine in China. However, the demand for HPV vaccines has tremendously increased over the past few years. In order to increase the availability of HPV vaccines, various measures have been implemented. In China, for instance, the authorities have expanded the age coverage of HPV vaccines. This policy allow Gardasil to be eligible for women aged 9 to 45.
Seeking clarity: addressing misconceptions and empowering discussions on Gardasil 9 in China
Meanwhile, the scarcity and high cost of Gardasil 9 have led to an increase in “Gardasil 9 anxiety” (九价焦虑). It was highly discussed among young women in China. In the first week of February, the hashtag #Why is Gardasil 9 so popular now# has been trending on Chinese social media Weibo. It has achieved more than 46.7 million views within two days. A viral post sparked discussions regarding the necessity and potential over-exaggeration of the Gardasil 9 vaccine for marketing purposes. The post questioned why people express surprise upon learning that someone has not received the vaccine yet.
Many netizens responded to the netizen’s concern. A netizen from Guangdong commented, “I have already gotten it anyway, regardless of whether it is useful or not.” At least I think it is useful mentally.” Another netizen from Beijing also shared her opinion on it, “(This is) because contemporary women are more aware of the importance of protecting and loving themselves.”
Necessity versus skepticism: examining perspectives on HPV vaccination among Chinese netizens
- Despite not being part of the national routine, the demand for HPV vaccines has significantly risen in China. It was driven by the awareness of its effectiveness in preventing HPV infections. Besides, it also reduces the risks of various cancers, including cervical cancer.
- To meet the increasing demand, China has expanded the age coverage for HPV vaccines. Thus, women aged from 9 to 45 to be eligible for vaccination. This step aims to enhance accessibility and ensure a broader population can benefit from the protection offered by HPV vaccines.
- Due to the scarcity and high cost of Gardasil 9, a hashtag trend on social media brought attention to the concerns surrounding its popularity and necessity. While experiencing anxiety and feeling a strong urge to get vaccinated, some individuals emphasize the significance of self-protection and empowerment, irrespective of any doubts raised about the vaccine’s efficacy.
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