Aims: To document progress with human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine introduction in three closely related European countries, one with organized (the Netherlands) and two with opportunistic cervical cancer screening (Belgium and Luxembourg). Methods: Experts involved in cervical cancer screening and national immunization programs from the three countries were contacted to provide information on the decision-making process concerning the introduction of HPV vaccine. Sales statistics were obtained from Intercontinental Marketing Services. Results: Advisory boards in all three countries advised organized HPV vaccination of girls of 12 years with variable catch-up policies. In Belgium, the national health authority partially reimburses the HPV vaccine for girls of 12–15 years (recently extended until 18 years). In Luxembourg, 12-year-old girls are invited for free vaccination, but the HPV vaccine is also free of charge for female adolescents of 13–17 years. The number of vaccines reimbursed in Belgium in December 2007 to May 2008 corresponds with the amount required to fully vaccinate 29% of the female population aged 12–15 years. In Luxembourg, between March and November 2008, the immunization program delivered a quantity of HPV vaccines which theoretically covered 29% of females aged 12–17 years. In the Netherlands, nationwide HPV vaccination of girls of 12 years will start in September 2009. The sales of HPV vaccines (all ages combined) were by far the lowest in the Netherlands. Conclusion: Up to the end of 2008, HPV vaccination efforts reached less than a third of the target population in Belgium and Luxembourg. If the latest trend continues, the current policy is expected to reach to most half of the target population. Well-planned introduction of vaccination combined with an organized screening program and active surveillance are crucial for the program to achieve and monitor its desired aims. Such surveillance should include linkage between vaccination, screening and cancer registries.

Keywords:
Cervical cancer prevention, HPV vaccination, Belgium, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, European Union
This content is only available via PDF.
© 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel
2010
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.