L e t´s T a l k H e a l t h
How does it work?
The vaccine can be administered to young women at the age of 26 and young men at the age of 21. However, it is proven that this vaccine is more effective when administered to children at younger ages. It is recommended that boys and girls begin the process at the age of 11.
HPV Vaccine
Every year in the United States, the Human Papilloma Virus or HPV causes around 32,500 cancers in women and men. The HPV vaccine can prevent the development of most cancers (around 30,000). It can prevent about 70% cervical cancer, 80% anal cancer, 60% cancer of the vagina and 40% cancer of the vulva.
Diseases caused by this virus:
HPV causes cancer in the mouth, throat, anus and rectum. In women, it also causes cervical and genital cancer. In men it can cause cancer in their genitals.
HPV can also cause genital warts that can be quite painful and difficult to eliminate.
If the vaccination starts before 15 years old, only 2 doses are needed. If they are given after the age of 15, then 3 doses are necessary. Each dose should be given at least 6 months after the first dose.
Patricia A. Botin MSN, MPH, CPNPD,
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
The HRHCare Health Center
at Amenia