Updated Guidelines for the HPV Vaccine
The HPV vaccine helps prevent cancer caused by the human papillomavirus. This virus is typically transmitted through vaginal, oral or anal sex, and can lead to several kinds of cancer. Cervical, anal, vaginal, penis and throat cancer are just some of the cancers that can be caused by HPV.
HPV vaccination in preteens and young adults is an extremely important tool in preventing them from getting cancer later in life.
Who Gets HPV
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), every year in the US approximately 9,300 men and 17,500 women develop HPV-related cancer that could have been prevented by the HPV vaccine.
According to the CDC, most people who are sexually active will contract the human papillomavirus at some point. However, many people may never even realize that they have it. For a large number of men and women, the active phase of the infection may be very short, because the body’s immune system goes into action and suppresses the virus.
However, even if the person does not have symptoms or know they have HPV, they are still at risk for developing cancer in the future.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine
Originally, the HPV vaccine was only recommended for persons from pre-teens to age 26. But in 2019 the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, made recommendations that expand the age range of people for whom the HPV vaccine should be recommended. (This also increases the number of patients whose insurance providers may cover the HPV vaccine.)
The HPV vaccine is recommended for all preteen males and females, through the age of 26. And, the CDC advisory committee also recommends that women and men ages 27 to 45 who are not adequately vaccinated, should also consult with their doctor about receiving the HPV vaccine.
AGE | 1st DOSE | 2nd DOSE | 3rd DOSE |
---|---|---|---|
Preteens (9-14 years old) | Age 11 – 12 | 6 months to 1 year later | N/A |
Unvaccinated Young Adults (15 – 26 years old) | ASAP | 6 months later | 6 months after 2nd |
Unvaccinated Adults (27 -45) | Ask Your Dr. | 6 months later | 6 months after 2nd |
When to Get the HPV Vaccine
The CDC recommends that children get the first HPV vaccination between age 11 and 12 years, then receive the second dose six months to a year later. But, the vaccine can be started as young as 9, as well as later than 12.
However, males and females who receive the HPV vaccine after age 15 require three doses instead of two.
Women and men ages 27 to 45 who did not receive the HPV vaccine, or who did not receive both doses, should consult with Dr. Fellenbaum at Flint OBGYN, or another doctor, about receiving the HPV vaccine.
Benefits of the HPV Vaccine
Recent research, published in the medical journal Lancet, found in 65 studies that a decade after introduction of the HPV vaccine, there was a dramatic decrease in HPV infections, as well as precancerous cervical lesions and anal and genital warts.
In fact, the cases of HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for 70 percent of cervical cancers, decreased by 83 percent in girls ages 13 to 19. And HPV decreased by 66 percent among women 20 to 24.
HPV Vaccine – Flint, MI
If you are a young adult, or the parent of a child older than age 10, it is important that you discuss the HPV vaccine with your doctor, Dr. Fellenbaum or another physician. The HPV vaccine is quick, easy and highly effective at protecting against cancer. The HPV vaccine is also covered by insurance.
Do not put your child or yourself at risk for cancer. Schedule an HPV vaccination at Flint OBGYN today.