In a major step for global health, the Chinese mainland's National Medical Products Administration has approved Cecolin 9, the first domestically developed nine-valent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. This win not only underscores the country's growing biotech prowess but also promises broader protection against cervical cancer.
Developed by Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Xiamen University, and Wantai BioPharm, Cecolin 9 is now the world's second high-valency HPV vaccine after the United States. Five clinical trials across the Chinese mainland since 2019—and more than 11,000 volunteers aged 9 to 45—showed a protection rate exceeding 98% against persistent infections of HPV types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58, with complete defense against cervical infections.
Teens aged 9 to 17 need just two doses to trigger an immune response similar to that seen in women aged 18 to 26 after three shots. Notably, for girls aged 15 to 17, Cecolin 9 is the only two-dose option in the Chinese mainland, easing vaccination schedules and improving access.
Data published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases reveal that Cecolin 9 delivers immune responses on par with leading international vaccines for at least 30 months post-immunization. This achievement builds on the research team's earlier success: the Chinese mainland's first two-valent HPV vaccine, launched in 2019 and WHO prequalified in 2021, now serves markets in 21 countries.
Cervical cancer remains the fourth most common cancer among women globally, according to WHO. In a move to curb its impact, the Chinese mainland made free HPV shots available to about 40% of girls aged 13 to 14 in 2024, part of a broader push to protect future generations.
With Cecolin 9 on the horizon, the race to eliminate cervical cancer gains fresh momentum, offering hope to young people and health advocates worldwide.
Reference(s):
China approves first domestically produced nine-valent HPV vaccine
cgtn.com
