Wright Medicine: The HPV vaccine is crucial in the fight against infectious diseases and cancer

As the new school year begins, parents and caregivers are checking off the usual back-to-school to-do list: new clothes, school supplies, grocery items, and, most importantly, making sure kids get their recommended vaccinations.

One vaccine that deserves special attention is the human papillomavirus vaccine, or HPV. While HPV vaccination is routinely recommended during the pre-teen years, its benefits extend into adulthood. In fact, HPV vaccination is an important tool for preventing some cancers later in life.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. It is very common that almost all sexually active people will be infected with at least one type of HPV at some point in their lives. Most cases of HPV infection cause no symptoms and go away on their own within two years. But some infections persist and can lead to genital warts or cancer.

HPV can cause several types of cancer, including cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancer. Penile cancer. Anal cancer. Cancer of the tonsils, the base of the tongue, and the back of the throat. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 39,000 people develop HPV-related cancer each year in the United States. Vaccination against HPV can prevent more than 90% of these cancers.

The CDC recommends routine HPV vaccination for boys and girls at age 11 or 12, although vaccination can begin as early as age 9. Vaccination during the pre-teen years produces a strong immune response and provides protection before a person is exposed to HPV.

Children who start the vaccination series before age 15 generally need two doses, six to 12 months apart. Those starting at age 15 or older generally need three doses.

People with certain conditions that affect the immune system may also need three doses, regardless of the age at which they start vaccination.

For those who were not vaccinated when they were younger, subsequent vaccination up to age 26 is recommended. Adults ages 27 to 45 who have not been vaccinated can talk with their health care provider about whether vaccination might benefit them.

The HPV vaccination is preventive — it does not treat an existing HPV infection. There is no cure for the virus itself, although health problems caused by HPV, such as genital warts and precancerous changes, can be treated.

For people with cervicitis, HPV vaccination does not eliminate the need for routine cervical cancer screening. Screening recommendations depend on age, type of screening test used, and the individual’s health history.

In general, people between the ages of 21 and 29 should have a Pap test every three years when the results are normal. From ages 30 to 65, options include HPV testing alone every five years, HPV testing with Pap testing every five years, or Pap testing alone every three years. Your health care provider can help determine which screening method is right for you.

Regular preventive care also provides an opportunity to discuss other aspects of sexual and reproductive health. At Wright Community Health Center, our women’s health services include cervical cancer screening, Pap and HPV testing, gynecological exams, pelvic and breast exams, well-woman visits, bone density testing, age-appropriate immunizations, STD testing and treatment, and hormonal testing.

HPV prevention and screening is especially important as part of comprehensive care for people with HIV. Some HPV infections can persist and cause serious health problems, making regular preventative care and proper screening an important part of maintaining overall health.

The Wright Center’s Ryan White HIV Clinic provides continuous, coordinated HIV and infectious disease care to more than 500 patients across seven counties in northeastern Pennsylvania. As a designated Ryan White provider through the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the clinic has provided Part C medical services since 2002. In 2008, it expanded services through a Part B Case Management Grant from the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration to help meet patients’ broader quality of life needs.

This comprehensive, integrated approach means that patients can access a wide range of health services in one place, including care for HIV and other infectious diseases. The clinic welcomes new patients regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.

As families settle into routines for the new school year, now is a good time to make sure children are protected from preventable diseases — including HPV. Talk with your child’s health care provider about whether he or she is aware of the HPV vaccine and other recommended immunizations.

The HPV vaccine is safe, highly effective, and most importantly, a powerful form of cancer prevention. It’s one of the simplest steps parents can take today to help protect their children from certain cancers in the future.

Chelsea Hafner, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner, is the medical director at the Wright Community Health Center at West Scranton Middle School at 1401 Fellows Street. For more information, visit TheWrightCenter.org Or call 570-591-5280.