HPV 5 things every parent should know
HPV (human papillomavirus) is the leading cause of cervical, head and neck cancers in the United States. It’s also one of the most common viral infections. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 42 million Americans are currently infected with HPV and about 13 million more, including teens, are newly infected every year.
The good news? There’s a safe, effective way to protect your child: the HPV vaccine preventions the infection that can lead to cancer.
Lara Al-Ejeilat, MD, pediatrician at M Health Fairview Clinic – Blaine, talks with families about HPV all the time. “It’s one of the most effective tools we have today for cancer prevention. I didn’t hesitate to make sure my kids got it.”
Here are five things Al-Ejeilat says parents should know:
1. HPV is extremely common
Nearly 4 out of 5 people will come into contact with HPV at some point in their lives. Most won’t even know they have it until symptoms develop, such as genital warts. Though it’s generally transmitted sexually, it can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. And while many infections clear up on their own, some don’t - and those can cause serious health problems.
2. Certain strains of HPV can cause cancer
There are more than 40 types of HPV that can infect people. While not all are dangerous, 13 high-risk strains are linked to cancers, including cervical, throat, anal, penile and vulvar cancers. Each year, more than 36,000 Americans are diagnosed with cancers caused by HPV.
3. The HPV vaccine helps prevent cancer
The HPV vaccine is up to 90% effective at preventing infections most likely to cause cancer. It’s one of the safest and most effective vaccines available today.
4. The vaccine works best when given earlier
The immune system responds most strongly between ages 9-12, which is why the vaccine is recommended at this age, before kids are ever exposed to HPV.
CDC guidelines for the HPV vaccine:
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Routine vaccination is recommended between 11 and 12 years old (can start at 9) and is recommended for everyone through 26 years of age – but approved up to age 45 if patient desires the vaccine and discusses with their provider.
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If starting before age 15: two doses are needed. For those starting the vaccine series prior to 15 years old, two doses are recommended.
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If starting between ages 15-26, or for immunocompromised individuals: three doses are recommended.
5. It’s not just for girls — boys need it, too
HPV doesn’t only affect women. It is the most common cause of throat cancer in men and can cause anal and penile cancers. Unlike in women, there is no HPV cancer screening in men, so by the time it is discovered it is usually advanced. Vaccinating boys protects not only them but also others by stopping the spread of the virus.
The bottom line
The HPV vaccine is about more than preventing an infection — it’s about preventing cancer. By vaccinating your child, you’re giving them powerful, lifelong protection.
If you have questions, talk with your child’s pediatrician -- or find one here. They’ll walk you through what to expect and help make the best plan for your family.
