The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) has advised the federal government to enhance its national immunization strategy. This call to action comes at a time when a lack of access to HPV vaccination programs for young men in Canada is needlessly putting the health of Canadians at risk.
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease in Canada, with approximately three out of every four sexually active Canadians becoming infected with it at some point in their lives. This ailment causes five per cent of all cancers worldwide, and about 70 per cent of all cervical cancer cases, accounting for around 400 deaths per year in Canada.
MORE INDUSTRY NEWS
- Wal-Mart launches click-and-collect service in Canada
- United Biopharmaceuticals announces partnership with Naturally Perfect Consulting
- Organic baby and toddler food draws interest from private equity firm
In its March 2007 budget, the federal government provided $300 million to the provinces and territories in support of a national HPV vaccination program for young women. However, few provinces in the country offer this protection to young men. Because of this, the CPhA will be heavily advocating the enhancement of Canada’s National Immunization Strategy in the upcoming federal election.
“Infectious diseases, such as HPV, continue to pose a significant threat to the health of Canadians,” says Carlo Berardi, chair of the CPhA. “Immunization is the safest, most effective way to prevent, control and eliminate vaccine-preventable diseases. The evidence is clear: vaccination saves lives.”
