For some parents, talking about the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine with their children can be uncomfortable. Yes, HPV is a sexually transmitted disease—the most common in the U.S.—but more importantly, it is a virus that can cause cancer.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 80 million Americans are currently infected with some type of HPV and about 14 million people will become newly infected each year.
In other words, it is so common that most sexually active people will have it at some point in their lives.
HPV and Cancer
For most people, the human papillomavirus causes no health issues and goes away on its own, but for some, it can cause cancer.
The CDC reports that almost all cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV, and the virus has also been linked to cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus and throat.
So, what if you could prevent this type of cancer before it even occurred? You would probably do it, right?
Well, in this case you can with the HPV vaccine.
HPV Vaccine
The HPV vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys ages 11 to 12 (it can be started as early as age 9). In Virginia, the Virginia Department of Health requires the vaccine as part of regular school immunizations.
At this age, the vaccine produces the strongest immune response. In addition, the series of shots are most effective when given before a person becomes sexually active.
The HPV vaccine has been proven to prevent the two types of HPV that cause 70 percent of all cervical cancers and pre-cancers, as well as many cancers of the throat, vagina, vulva and anus. Plus, the vaccine helps prevent infection by the two types of HPV that cause most genital warts.
Research has shown that its effects are long lasting. Current studies have followed vaccinated individuals for 10 years and show that there is no evidence of weakened protection over time.
If you have any questions about the HPV vaccine, talk to your pediatrician or Family Medicine physician. They can help you safeguard your child today for the future!
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This article was reviewed by Ryan Fulton, DO, with Carilion Children's - Daleville.
