Serie A Women & MSD Italia: HPV Vaccination Campaign Launched

Rome, Italy – A new public health campaign, “Blocca l’HPV con la vaccinazione” (Block HPV with Vaccination), was launched today by Serie A Women and MSD Italia, with the approval of the Italian Ministry of Health. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the prevention of HPV-related cancers in both men and women.

A Multi-Channel Approach to Prevention

The campaign utilizes a creative metaphor, comparing vaccination against HPV to a goalkeeper blocking a goal. Just as a goalkeeper defends against a score, vaccination protects against the development of potentially fatal cancers caused by the Human Papillomavirus. This message is delivered through a multi-channel communication strategy.

Did You Know? In Italy, approximately 8,800 cancers each year are estimated to be caused by chronic infections from oncogenic strains of the papillomavirus.

Collaboration for Public Health

Gabriele Gravina, President of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), emphasized the role of sports in promoting well-being and preventative practices. Federica Cappelletti, President of Serie A Women, expressed pride in supporting this important public health issue, stating that the goal is to protect everyone through vaccination and national screening programs.

Nicoletta Luppi, President and CEO of MSD Italia, highlighted the company’s commitment to preventing Papillomavirus, viewing it as an investment in the future of Italy. The campaign will leverage modern creative techniques and innovative communication channels to reach a broad audience.

Reaching the Public

The core of the campaign features a video showcasing spectacular saves by goalkeepers, created using artificial intelligence and inspired by real Serie A Women players. The video concludes with the message: “Blocca l’HPV con la vaccinazione,” encouraging viewers to consult their doctor, vaccination centre, or visit www.infohpv.it for more information. The campaign will be visible on digital channels, YouTube, social media platforms (Facebook and TikTok), DAZN during Serie A Women matches, and on television during the Coppa Italia Women. The message will also be displayed on LED boards at stadiums hosting the Coppa Italia Women.

Expert Insight: This campaign demonstrates a strategic shift towards leveraging the popularity of women’s sports to address critical public health concerns. By associating vaccination with a positive and empowering image – the strength and skill of female athletes – the initiative aims to overcome potential hesitancy and encourage proactive health-seeking behavior.

The Scope of HPV and Prevention Strategies

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in both sexes. While the virus often resolves on its own, persistent infections can lead to precancerous lesions and potentially fatal cancers. In Europe, HPV is linked to 100% of cervical cancers, 88% of anal cancers, 78% of vaginal cancers, 25% of vulvar cancers, 53% of penile cancers, and 30% of oropharyngeal cancers. Prevention strategies include vaccination for both men and women, and cervical cancer screening for women.

Enrico Di Rosa, President of the Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health (SItI), emphasized that preventing Papillomavirus is a major challenge for public health. Elsa Viora, President of the Italian Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (SIGO), added that vaccination, combined with screening, are crucial tools for reducing the incidence of cervical cancer and protecting both men and women.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the goal of the “Blocca l’HPV con la vaccinazione” campaign?

The campaign aims to raise awareness about the prevention of HPV-related cancers in both men and women through vaccination.

What is HPV?

HPV, or Papillomavirus, is the most common sexually transmitted infection in both sexes and can lead to precancerous lesions and potentially fatal cancers if not addressed.

Where can people find more information about HPV vaccination?

Individuals are encouraged to consult their doctor, visit a vaccination centre, or visit the website www.infohpv.it.

As this campaign gains momentum, will it lead to increased vaccination rates and a reduction in HPV-related cancers in Italy remains to be seen.