Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) and Hôtel-Dieu de France Hospital (HDF) collaboratively hosted a panel discussion focused on the prevention of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The event, held on Thursday, January 18, 2024, unfolded at USJ’s Medical Sciences Campus and drew an engaged audience comprising students, staff, and faculty.

Distinguished speakers contributing their insights to the panel included Professor David Attalah, Head of the Department of Gynecology and Abnormal Placental Implantations at HDF; Associate Professor Fady Nasr, Head of the Department of Hematology-Oncology at HDF; Dr. Paul Henry Torbey, Coordinator of the Department of Pediatrics at HDF; and Dr. Rémy Daou, Medical Director of the Family Medicine Center (CMF) at HDF.

Presentations and discussions focused on the following topics:

• Nature of Human Papillomaviruses: They constitute a diverse family of over 200 DNA viruses, distinguished by their tropism and pathogenicity. With an alarming statistic revealing that nearly 80% of women and men will encounter a papillomavirus infection in their lifetime, understanding the nuances of these viruses becomes paramount;
• Transmission Modes: HPVs exhibit a high degree of contagion, disseminating through various modes such as direct mucocutaneous or cutaneous-cutaneous contact, self-inoculation (e.g., wart scratching), indirect contact (via shared spaces like swimming pools, showers, and objects), perinatal contact (during childbirth), and sexual contact. This multifaceted transmission mechanism underscores the need for comprehensive preventive strategies;
• Epidemiology: The global burden of HPV-related cancers is staggering, with an estimated 625,600 women and 69,400 men annually developing such cancers worldwide. Notably, cervical cancer claimed its position as the fourth leading cause of cancer in women in 2020, with 604,127 new cases and 341,831 fatalities. These statistics underscore the urgency to address the escalating impact of HPV infections on public health;
• Prevention: In the quest to combat HPV infections, vaccination emerges as the most effective strategy. By stimulating the development of antibodies that impede the virus from infiltrating cells, vaccines offer a powerful shield against HPV-related diseases. It is recommended that individuals aged 9 to 15 receive two doses six months apart, while those aged 15 to 45 should undergo a three-dose regimen (administered at 0, 2, and 6 months).

In a demonstration of our commitment to community well-being, USJ and HDF proudly announce the initiation of a subsidized HPV vaccination campaign, exclusively designed for the benefit of USJ students, faculty, staff, and their family members, and will be hosted at CMF-HDF.

To secure a vaccination appointment for yourself or a family member, kindly visit the following link: https://bit.ly/USJ-HPV-Vaccin or scan the provided QR Code.

For further information about vaccination, please contact the CMF: 01-604000 ext. 8181.

Reald also: Table ronde sur la prévention du virus du papillome humain et lancement d’une campagne de vaccination

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