HPV Awareness is Key to Prevention

By Dr. Larry Nickens, Goldsboro Pediatrics

What is HPV?
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) with more than 100 known strains, which can cause over 70% of cervical cancers in women. The virus can go unnoticed for years, resulting in one of two possibilities. Either we rid the virus on our own and cervix cells continue to grow normally, or the virus persists leading to irregular cell alterations and possibly cancer.

About 50% of those sexually active will acquire HPV at some point in their lives with the chance of passing it to another without even knowing it. Both men and woman are at risk of obtaining HPV, genital warts and certain cancers.

Is there a cure for HPV?
There is no cure for HPV infection, although in most women the infection goes away on its own.

Is there a way to prevent HPV?
Chatter about the newly approved vaccine, Gardasil, used for preventing HPV has created both curiosity and controversy. Parents, children, women and men need to stay informed about prevention and how to reduce the risk of getting cancers associated with HPV.

Does the Gardasil vaccine prevent all forms of HPV?
While the vaccine is a stepping-stone to cancer prevention, it is important to continue with regular cervical screenings, as the vaccine does not protect against from all forms of HPV. Annual Pap tests are also imperative. Pap tests should begin at age 18 or within three years of intercourse and patients should be tested one a year. The new Gardasil vaccine is sure to aid in the fight against cancer, but the only way to prevent possible contact with all strains of HPV, is through abstaining from sexual activity, or remaining in a mutually stable, and faithful relationship.

Administration of the vaccine for females prior to sexual activity is far more effective than administering the vaccine post sexual activity. The Gardasil vaccine builds antibodies protecting females from four strains of HPV. Therefore, it is highly recommended to receive the vaccine prior to the chance of acquiring HPV so the vaccine can fight off the virus. Thus far, research has shown it is not advised that pregnant or nursing women seek the vaccine.

Recent studies prove the vaccination is almost 100% effective in preventing four of the 15 known strands of HPV. It’s estimated about 30% of cancers related to HPV and about 10% of genital warts will not be covered when treated with the vaccine. However, the American Cancer Society estimates that over 9,700 women will be infected with cervical cancer from HPV, and over 3,700 women will die from the virus. In addition, at least 1% or 1 million sexually active adults (men and women) will acquire visible genital warts. With this knowledge, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) stresses the importance and highly recommends the vaccine be administered to females who will engage in sexual activity at some point in their lives.

Who should get the Gardasil vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is recommended for 11-12 year-old girls, and can be given to girls as young as 9. The vaccine is also recommended for 13-26 year-old girls/women who have not yet received or completed the vaccine series.

How much does the Gardasil vaccine cost?
While the Gardasil vaccine is expensive ($120/ dose) and must be administered three times over a six months time span. There are some opportunities available for those who might have trouble requesting treatment. Vaccines for Children (VFC), a government program enables the opportunity to receive free vaccines up until age 19 to those who cannot pay for or do not have access to insurance, or Medicaid. Some states have public health department clinics where the vaccine is available at a lower price, or even for free.

Where can I find more information?
For more information on HPV you may contact Goldsboro Pediatrics at 919-734-4736 or visit www.cdc.gov/std/hpv.

About Goldsboro Pediatrics
Goldsboro Pediatrics’ goal is to optimize the growth and development of children to ensure their success as healthy, happy and productive adults in tomorrow’s society. Physician offices are located in Goldsboro, Mt. Olive, Princeton and LaGrange.