HPV-FASTER: Combined strategies of HPV vaccination and HPV screening towards a one visit for cervical cancer preventive campaigns

Abstract

HPV screening and vaccination are complementary preventive options often implemented as separate and non-coordinated public health programs. The HPVFASTER protocols aim to address this disconnect by combining both strategies with the ultimate purpose of accelerating the reduction of cervical cancer incidence and mortality and making the programs both costeffective and sustainable. Results from two phase III trials comparing HPV vaccination against placebo among adult women (aged up to 45 years and 55 years for 4vHPV and 2vHPV vaccines, respectively)1,2 showing high protection against HPV type specific infections and persistent infections and the excellent and consistent results of the HPVscreening trials3-5 provide the basis for the HPV-FASTER proposal. The recognition of indications to vaccinate adult women in Europe6-8 and the US9 which do not include an upper age limit, favor the exploration of combined protocols of screening and vaccination and broadening the vaccine indications in developed and developing countries.