HPV is a sexually transmitted virus responsible for almost all cervical cancers as well as other problems such as genital warts. Over 100 types of HPV exist, however the most common cancer causing HPV types are 16 and 18. These types are considered “high-risk.”
Other precautionary measures recommended along with regular screenings include the HPV vaccine, Gardasil. Gardasil was approved for use in girls/women ages 9-26 by the Food and Drug Administration in the summer of 2006. According to the CDC, the vaccine protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18, which together cause 70% of cervical cancers and 90% of genital warts. It is a series of three shots to be issued as follows:
· first dose at selected date
· second dose two months after the first dose
· third dose six months after the first.
Frequently Asked Questions about the HPV Vaccine
Who should get the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is recommended for girls/women aged 11-26, and can be given to girls as young as age 9.
What does the vaccine not protect against?
Because the vaccine does not protect against all types of HPV, it will not prevent all cases of cervical cancer or genital warts. The CDC reports that about 30% of cervical cancers will not be prevented by the vaccine, so it will be important for women to continue getting screened for cervical cancer (regular Pap tests). Also, the vaccine does not prevent about 10% of genital warts - nor will it prevent other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). So it will still be important for sexually active adults to reduce exposure to HPV and other STIs.
How effective is the HPV vaccine?
Studies have proven the vaccine to be almost 100% effective in preventing diseases caused by the four HPV types covered in the vaccine. These include pre-cancers of the cervix, vulva and vagina, and genital warts. The vaccine has mainly been studied in young women who had not been exposed to any of the four HPV types in the vaccine.
The vaccine was less effective in young women who had already been exposed to one of the HPV types covered by the vaccine, but may still benefit from Gardasil. Clinical trials have shown that women with current or past infection with one or more of the HPV types contained in the vaccine were protected from disease caused by the remaining vaccine HPV types.
This vaccine does not treat existing HPV infections, genital warts, pre cancers or cancers.
If vaccinated, will I still need cervical cancer screenings?
Yes, even with a HPV vaccine, cervical cancer screenings are recommended. Because the vaccine does not protect against all types of HPV, women are still at risk for some cancers. Also, not receiving all three doses of the vaccine or having a previous HPV infection before receiving the vaccine will increase risk so annual check ups should continue after vaccination.
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