HPV vaccine critical in fight against infectious disease, cancer
As a new school year gets underway, parents and caregivers are checking off the usual back-to-school to-do list: new clothes, school supplies, physicals and, importantly, making sure children are up to date on their recommended vaccinations.
One vaccine that deserves particular attention is the human papillomavirus, or HPV, vaccine. While HPV vaccination is routinely recommended during the preteen years, its benefits extend well into adulthood. In fact, HPV vaccination is an important tool for preventing certain cancers later in life.
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. It is so common that nearly all sexually active people will be infected with at least one type of HPV at some point in their lives. Most HPV infections cause no symptoms and go away on their own within two years. But some infections persist and can lead to genital warts or cancer.
Chelsea Hafner, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC, a certified registered nurse practitioner, is the medical director at The Wright Center for Community Health School-Based Health Center in West Scranton Intermediate School at 1401 Fellows St. For more information, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-591-5280.
HPV can cause several types of cancer, including cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers; penile cancer; anal cancer; and cancers of the tonsils, base of the tongue, and back of the throat. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 39,000 people develop an HPV-related cancer each year in the United States. HPV vaccination could prevent more than 90% of these cancers.
The CDC recommends routine HPV vaccination for boys and girls at ages 11 or 12, although vaccination can begin as early as age 9. Vaccination during the preteen years produces a strong immune response and offers protection before a person is exposed to HPV.
Children who begin the vaccination series before their 15th birthday generally need two doses, given six to 12 months apart. Those who begin at age 15 or older generally need three doses. People with certain conditions that affect the immune system may also need three doses, regardless of the age at which they begin vaccination.
For those who were not vaccinated when they were younger, catch-up vaccination is recommended through age 26. Adults ages 27 through 45 who have not been vaccinated can talk with their healthcare provider about whether vaccination may benefit them.
HPV vaccination is prevention – it does not treat an existing HPV infection. There is no treatment for the virus itself, although health problems caused by HPV, such as genital warts and precancerous changes, can be treated.
For people who have a cervix, HPV vaccination does not eliminate the need for routine cervical cancer screening. Screening recommendations depend on age, the type of screening test used, and an individual’s health history.
Generally, people ages 21 to 29 should have a Pap test every three years when results are normal. From ages 30 through 65, options include an HPV test alone every five years, an HPV test combined with a Pap test every five years, or a Pap test alone every three years. Your healthcare provider can help determine the right screening approach for you.
Regular preventive care also provides an opportunity to discuss other aspects of sexual and reproductive health. At The Wright Center for Community Health, our women’s health services include cervical cancer screening, Pap and HPV testing, gynecological checkups, pelvic and breast exams, well-woman visits, bone density testing, age-appropriate immunizations, STI testing and treatment, and hormonal testing.
HPV prevention and screening are especially important as part of comprehensive care for people living with HIV. Certain HPV infections can persist and cause serious health problems, making regular preventive care and appropriate screening an important part of maintaining overall health.
The Wright Center’s Ryan White HIV Clinic provides continuous, coordinated HIV and infectious disease care to more than 500 patients across seven Northeastern Pennsylvania counties. As a designated Ryan White service provider through the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the clinic has provided Part C medical services since 2002. In 2008, services expanded through HRSA’s Part B case management grant to help address patients’ broader quality-of-life needs.
That integrated, whole-person approach means patients can access a wide range of health services in one place, including care for HIV and other infectious diseases. The clinic welcomes new patients regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.
As families settle into a new school-year routine, now is a good time to make sure children are protected against preventable diseases – including HPV. Talk with your child’s healthcare provider about whether they are up to date on the HPV vaccine and other recommended immunizations.
The HPV vaccine is safe, highly effective, and, most importantly, a powerful form of cancer prevention. It is one of the simplest steps parents can take today to help protect their children from certain cancers in the future.
