Confused about the government’s new programme to offer the human papilloma virus vaccination to all Secondary 1 girls? Eveline Gan finds out what it’s about and whether you should opt in.
Since April this year, 13-year-old girls in national schools have had free vaccinations against the human papilloma virus, or HPV.
The opt-in vaccination, which is done in school, will be offered to all girls attending Secondary 1, or the equivalent. Girls currently in Secondary 2 to 5 will also be eligible for the vaccination as a one-time catch-up measure.
Experts say the vaccine can protect against cervical cancer, a preventable disease and one of the top women’s cancers here. Almost 200 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed yearly in Singapore.
Still, some parents have expressed concerns about vaccinating their daughters, such as its potential side effects and safety. Here, Dr Joseph Ng, president of the Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology of Singapore, shares more on HPV infections and how the vaccination works.
What is HPV?
The virus is typically transmitted through sexual activity, and rarely, during delivery from an infected mum to her baby. By the age of 50, four in five women will have been infected with this virus during their lives.
HPV and cervical cancer – what’s the link?
This story is from the July - August 2019 edition of Young Parents Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July - August 2019 edition of Young Parents Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Everything You Need To Know About Direct School Admission
If your kid is good at sports, music or has other talents, the DSA programme may be his key to getting into an elite secondary school or specialised school. Here’s what you should know about the process.
What Is The Right CCA For Your Primary School Kid?
Co-curricular activities (CCAs) aren’t just frivolous frills. They teach kids important life skills that can’t be found in a classroom lesson. EVELINE GAN finds out how to select the right one for your child.
Why You Shouldn't Let PSLE Stress Take Over Your Kid's Life
PSLE preparations start in Primary 5, which means a high-pressure two years for your family. Here's how to support your child so they can do their best.
Should Your Kid Skip A Vaccine Shot?
Vaccinations are a rite of passage for every Singaporean child, but what if your kid is sick before an appointment, or misses a booster dose? Find out the answers to these and other pressing questions.
Separation Anxiety, Bullies And Other Preschool Blues
Preschool is rarely a smooth journey for children. Sasha Gonzales asks the experts how to handle the most common dilemmas, from separation anxiety to having trouble making new friends.
Is Your Kid Stressed About Starting School This Year?
School kids in Singapore are more stressed than their peers overseas. If your kid is feeling the pressure, here’s how to find what's triggering his anxiety – and how to help.
Speech Problems In Singapore Kids: When Should You Worry?
How can you help your little one get over his stuttering? Should you worry that your tot doesn’t speak as well or isn’t as talkative as his cousin? Sasha Gonzales polls the experts on the pressing speech and language issues in toddlers and preschoolers here.
The Most Common Learning Difficulties In Singapore Kids
Struggling to read, write or count is a common problem for many children, but how do you know when that struggle is actually a learning difficulty or disability? Sasha Gonzales asked three experts to tell us what signs to look out for and when to know to get help.
Can You Really Un-Spoil Your Child?
Yes, there are ways to turn things around – without losing your temper. Here, the experts share strategies you can use in common bratty situations.
Bottoms Up!
Using cloth nappies helps save the Earth – and your wallet, too, say these mums who choose not to put their babies in disposable diapers.
