Effectiveness of HPV vaccination less certain for older women

15 October 2010

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15 Oct 2010, The Straits Times

Question

Name of the Person: MS Lee Kin Jong

Consider including older women for the Medisave use.

'I applaud the move by the Ministry of Health to allow a part of the Medisave to be used to pay towards human papilloma virus jabs ('Cervical cancer jabs covered by Medisave'; Oct 5). However, the move limits Medisave use for females aged between nine and 26, which allows only the young to gain form this vaccination. I am sure there are older women who would like to take this vaccination but hesitate because of the cost. The ministry should consider including older women for the Medisave use.'

Reply

Reply from MOH

Ms Lee Kin Jong suggested that we “Consider including older women for the Medisave use” to pay for the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccinations (ST, Oct 12).

The prescribed age range of “9 to 26 years” for HPV vaccination is as recommended by the vaccine manufacturers. For older women, the effectiveness of the vaccination is less certain. In any case, HPV vaccination is no substitute for routine Pap smear. All women, regardless of whether they have been vaccinated, should continue to go for regular Pap smear screening once every three years.