Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer among women.
Human papillomavirus can not only cause cervical cancer, but also genital warts in men and women.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the United States, nearly one in four people are infected with HPV. And, each year about 14 million people become infected, including adolescents.
Although people with HPV may not develop symptoms or health problems, each year in the U.S. it causes 33,700 cancers within men and women – nearly 31,200 cancers could be prevented by the HPV vaccination.
The following are guidelines for age ranges receiving the HPV vaccine.
- 11 or 12 years old. Two vaccination shots are suggested six to twelve months apart. If vaccinations are received less than six months apart, it is recommended to receive the third vaccination.
- 14 years or older, three shots will be administered over a six-month period.
- Nine to 26 years old. It is recommended to have three doses administered for individuals with a compromised immune system.
“The HPV vaccine can prevent the development of cervical cancer later in life, but most people do not realize HPV is associated with mouth, throat and anal cancer,” said Dr. Bailey Runkles, JRMC gynecologist and obstetrician. “When you consider that the vaccine may prevent all of these HPV associated cancers, as well as genital warts, it is a no-brainer.”
Cervarix, Gardasil and Gardasil 9 are the three HPV vaccines licensed by the FDA. In order to be licensed by the FDA, the benefits must outweigh any potential risks and it must be deemed as safe and effective. The HPV vaccines are able to help prevent infection caused by certain types of HPV, along with some cancers associated with those types.
For women who have received HPV vaccinations in the past, it is recommended to continue receiving pap and HPV testing as the vaccine does not prevent all types that may cause cervical cancer.
For HPV vaccinations, pap smears or information about cervical cancer, schedule direct: (701) 952-4878.
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