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Dr. Soenda Norman,

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Duke Medicine: Should your adolescent get the HPV vaccine? Common questions answered

By Duke Medicine

Published: 2012-11-05 20:52:00
Updated: 2012-11-05 20:52:00

Posted: November 5, 2012

Tags: Health and Safety, Duke Medicine

Ever since the human papillomavirus virus (HPV) vaccine was added to the immunization schedule for girls, and more recently for boys, parents have been questioning why their young children need a vaccine against cervical cancer and whether the vaccine is safe.

Here, Soenda Norman, MD, a family medicine physician with Duke Primary Care Brier Creek, shares the facts behind the vaccine and explains why it’s an important vaccination that boys and girls should receive.

What is HPV and how is it transmitted?

HPV actually comprises more than 100 viruses that cause a variety of skin disorders and several different types of cancer in the genital region. It is the main cause of cervical cancer in women, and genital warts in men and women. The virus is easily transmitted via sexual or skin-to-skin contact. It is possible to have HPV and not know it.

Why vaccinate and what does the vaccine offer protection against?

There are two approved vaccines – Gardasil and Cervarix – and both offer protection from two types of HPV that cause the majority of cervical cancer. However, Gardasil protects against HPV types that cause cervical cancer and genital warts. Cervarix is only approved for use in girls.

If cervical cancer is the main cancer caused by HPV, why is the vaccine now offered to boys?

It is recommended that boys receive the vaccine to decrease the risk of genital warts and certain genital cancers. Vaccination also helps reduce the incidence of HPV in males. That, in turn, diminishes the spread of the virus to women via sexual contact.

Who should get the HPV vaccine and how is it given?

Both boys and girls are typically advised to begin the vaccine series at their 11- or 12-year old physical exam. Catch up vaccination is offered in both boys and girls until age 26. It is given in a series of three doses over a 6-month period.

Does this vaccine encourage sexual behavior in adolescents? Why is it recommended at such a young age? Is it safe? Visit DukeHealth.org to see more answers to common questions parents have about the vaccine. 

Copyright 2012 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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Interesting how parents are so squeamish about a vaccine that prevents cancer.

Because then they would have to admit their kids are having sex!!!
Click to view my profile NiceNSmooth
November 6, 2012 4:22 p.m.
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Interesting how parents are so squeamish about a vaccine that prevents cancer.
brassy
November 6, 2012 3:12 p.m.
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As a parent, I've never really questioned vaccines...except this one. Thankfully, my children are still too young for this, but I'm not sure if I will be swayed by the time they reach 11-12 years of age.
Click to view my profile justbcauz
November 6, 2012 10:04 a.m.
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The reason these vaccines are suggested at the pre-teen age is because they are most effective if given before people get sexually active. So many people carry HPV viruses and don't know it. It is unfortunate that some children in the pre-teen age range have already been sexually active, whether by choice or by force. Do your research and see what is best for your own family members.
hockeygalnc
November 6, 2012 10:03 a.m.
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Parents need to do more independent research on vaccines. Drug companies make millions every years from the sale of many, many unnecessary, sometimes dangerous prescriptions. Our children and their health is our responsibility as parents. Until they remove mercury, squaline and many other toxic additives, I will say, "NO".
pmck
November 6, 2012 8:21 a.m.
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