How the HPV Vaccine Can Protect You—and Your Loved Ones—From Cancer

By Barbara Young, PharmD

Did you know that there is a vaccine that can protect you and your family from the most commonly reported sexually transmitted infection in the United States AND decrease the risk of cancer? Here are 5 facts you should know about human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. 

1. 1. Most people don’t know that they are infected with human papillomavirus (HPV).

   This virus is passed between individuals through skin-to-skin contact during sexual encounters. Since the infection often does not cause symptoms, most people are unaware of their infection, so it is easily and unknowingly spread. More than 200 types of the virus have been identified. Among these strains, some have been found to cause genital warts; other strains are noted to cause cancer. 
    

2. 2. Infection with HPV can cause 6 different types of cancer.

   Although most infections go away over time, some HPV infections can develop into one of 6 types of cancer—cancer of the cervix, penis, vulva, vagina, anus, or throat. Ongoing infections have the highest risk of causing cancer.
    

3. 3. You should receive the HPV vaccine series to have immunity before onset of sexual activity.

   It is estimated that up to 80% of sexually active adults will be infected during their lives. Therefore, it is important to receive the vaccine before becoming sexually active. It is routinely recommended at 11 or 12 years of age but may be given as early as 9 years of age. Older teens and adults up to 45 years of age may receive the vaccine. Older adults should talk with their doctor about receiving the vaccine. To prevent infection and spread of virus you should receive a 2 or 3-dose series of the vaccine depending on your age. HPV vaccine is active against most, but not all, strains of the virus.
    

4. 4. The HPV vaccine is well tolerated and is highly effective.

   Research shows that the benefits of receiving HPV vaccine far outweigh potential risks. The vaccine is highly effective in preventing disease in people who have not been exposed to the virus before receiving the vaccine. A few side effects have been noted during ongoing monitoring. Common side effects include pain, redness, and swelling at the site of injection; fever; achiness; tiredness; and nausea. Fainting can also occur after any vaccination, so it is important to sit or lie down when receiving the vaccine and for 15 minutes afterwards.
    

5. 5. It does not replace periodic monitoring for cervical cancer.

   Another action to help prevent cervical cancer is having a Pap smear at recommended intervals. Despite having immunity from vaccination, some variations of the virus are not covered by the current HPV vaccine. Therefore, it is important to begin having cervical cancer screenings (Pap smear) beginning at 21 years of age in addition to receiving the vaccine.

If you have questions about receiving this vaccine, it is important to ask your pharmacist or physician. Getting vaccinated for HPV is an important action to prevent cancer for you and your loved ones.