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Abstract

Title: Prospects for a prophylactic HPV vaccine: rationale and future implications for cervical cancer screening.
Author: Sherman ME, Schiffman MH, Strickler H, Hildesheim A
Journal: Diagn Cytopathol 18(1):5-9
Year: 1998
Month: January

Abstract: Cytologic screening in combination with ablative therapy has helped reduce cervical cancer mortality in the developed world. Despite the success of this approach, cervical cancer remains a major cause of death, especially among women with limited access to health care. Recognition that human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are the main etiologic agent in cervical cancer suggests that a prophylactic vaccine could reduce the incidence of HPV infection and, therefore, achieve cancer control with reduced reliance on costly screening programs. In this review, the rationale for developing a prophylactic HPV vaccine and the potential impact that vaccination would have on cervical cancer screening are discussed.