The vaccine used for the prevention of cervical cancer is?

Appeared in: AIIMS Bhopal NO - 2018 (Shift-1st)

Explanation

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is specifically designed to prevent cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is almost always caused by persistent infection with high-risk oncogenic HPV types, particularly types 16 and 18.
The vaccine works by creating antibodies against the L1 capsid protein of HPV, preventing the virus from infecting cells and leading to malignant transformation.
It is most effective when administered to individuals before they are exposed to the virus through sexual activity, typically between ages 9-14 years.

Option B: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is a type of antibody that provides passive, short-term immunity against existing infections. It is a treatment, not a vaccine that stimulates the body's own long-term immune response.
Option C: The Hepatitis B vaccine prevents infection with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Chronic HBV infection is a primary cause of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), not cervical cancer.
Option D: The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is administered to provide protection against tuberculosis (TB), a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Vaccination for Cancer Prevention as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses are central to public health initiatives for HPV vaccination, responsible for educating parents and adolescents about its importance in cancer prevention.
A key nursing role is to address vaccine hesitancy by providing evidence-based information on the safety and efficacy of the HPV vaccine, as confirmed in large clinical trials.
Nurses must be aware of the recommended vaccination schedules, including catch-up vaccination for individuals up to age 26.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that asks for a specific vaccine related to a specific disease.
First, identify the keywords in the question: 'vaccine' and 'prevention of cervical cancer'.
Recall the primary cause of cervical cancer. The main etiological agent is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Connect the cause (HPV) to the preventive measure (vaccine). The HPV vaccine is logically designed to target this virus.
Evaluate the other options to confirm your choice. IgG is an antibody (passive immunity), the Hepatitis B vaccine prevents liver cancer, and the BCG vaccine prevents tuberculosis. These can be confidently eliminated.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 201-203

E6 Gynecology Williams p. 211-251

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 1569-1571

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Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.