What You Need to Know About the HPV Vaccine
As experienced pediatricians who understand the unique health needs of preteens, we want to talk about the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. If you’re parenting a preteen, you’ve likely heard about this important vaccine. Understanding the importance of the HPV vaccine will help you know how to best protect your child.
Why is the HPV Vaccine Important?
HPV is a common virus that affects both men and women. It can cause cervical cancer as well as cancers of the mouth and throat. It is also responsible for genital warts. While most HPV infections go away on their own, some persist and lead to cancer over time. The good news? The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent HPV-caused cancers.
How is HPV Spread?
HPV is easily spread even when an infected person shows no symptoms. 9-out-of-10 men and 8-out-of-10 women will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives. Even those with a single partner can contract HPV. It’s important to note that HPV can be transmitted without sexual intercourse, by skin-to-skin contact.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the HPV vaccine for kids between 9 and 12 years old. Administering the vaccine at an earlier age is crucial because of:
Increased Effectiveness: Preteens produce more antibodies in response to the HPV vaccine, making it more effective. This means they only need two doses of the vaccine. Those getting the vaccine at 15 years old or later will need three doses.
Pre-exposure Protection: Vaccinating before exposure ensures your child is protected before they even have the chance to contract the virus.
The Impact of Vaccination
A recent population-based study from Scotland highlights the HPV vaccine’s effectiveness. Using screening, vaccination and cancer registry data collected across Scotland, researchers found that women who were vaccinated at the ages of 12 or 13 showed no cases of cervical cancer. The study also found that women who were vaccinated at 14 to 22 years of age and given three doses of the vaccine showed a significant reduction in these types of cancers compared with all unvaccinated women.
These findings are also noteworthy because Scotland began routine immunization in schools in 2008. Today, by the time Scottish students were in their fourth form of secondary school (equivalent to 10th grade here), nearly 90% of students have received at least one dose.
In the U.S., however, vaccination rates lag at around 60%. While we have seen great benefits since the vaccine came out in 2006, we want everyone protected.
Prevention and Education
The HPV vaccine is more than just a shot; it’s a way to prevent cancer. By vaccinating your preteen, you are protecting them from more than 90% of HPV-caused cancers. To learn more about HPV and the HPV vaccine, go here.
If you have questions for us, or want to schedule an appointment for your preteen, contact us right away. Your child’s health is worth it!