The World Health Organization (WHO) has approved Cecolin, a bivalent HPV vaccine manufactured by Innovax (China), for single-dose use in the prevention of cervical cancer. This decision follows compelling data from the CVIA 087 (CHOISES) trial, a collaborative effort involving icddr,b, PATH, and partners in Ghana, conducted between 2021 and 2023.
The trial's findings demonstrated the safety and efficacy of Cecolin as a single-dose vaccine, offering a practical solution for countries facing vaccine supply constraints. Cervical cancer claims a woman's life every two minutes, with a disproportionate 90% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. The WHO's approval marks a significant step towards addressing this inequity.
Key Trial Findings and Implications
The CVIA 087 (CHOISES) trial provided critical data supporting the WHO's decision. Dr. K Zaman, Senior Scientist at icddr,b and lead investigator of the trial, stated, "Our research has proven the safety and efficacy of Cecolin as a single-dose vaccine, providing a viable option for countries struggling with vaccine supply shortages." The study's impact on shaping global immunization policy is evident in the WHO's adoption of the single-dose regimen.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the potential for eliminating cervical cancer, stating, "Unlike most other cancers, we have the ability to eliminate cervical cancer, along with its painful inequities. By adding another option for a one-dose HPV vaccination schedule, we have taken another step closer to consigning cervical cancer to history."
Addressing Cervical Cancer Burden
Globally, over 660,000 cases of cervical cancer occur each year, with HPV being responsible for over 95% of these cases. The burden is particularly heavy in low- and middle-income countries, where access to screening and vaccination is limited. The single-dose Cecolin vaccine offers a cost-effective and logistically simpler approach to vaccination, potentially reaching more women in these underserved regions.
Call to Action for Vaccination
Dr. Tahmeed Ahmed, Executive Director of icddr,b, highlighted the importance of vaccination, especially in countries like Bangladesh, where the government offers free HPV vaccines to girls aged 10-14. "This is a critical opportunity to protect our daughters from cervical cancer," Dr. Ahmed stated. "Vaccination is our strongest defence, and I encourage all parents and guardians to ensure their girls receive this life-saving vaccine."
