National opinion: The importance of HPV vaccination for children

Did you know there is a way to help protect your child from cancer? Wouldn’t any parent leap at the chance to support their child’s future health? This incredible innovation is the HPV vaccine.

The HPV vaccine protects against human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is very common and spread through physical contact. Eight in 10 people will have HPV in their lifetime, so it is likely your child will have HPV sometime in the future. Also, HPV infection often does not have any symptoms, so it can be spread easily without someone knowing they have it. Although the virus goes away on its own most of the time, there is a chance that it can develop into cancer, including cervical, penile and throat cancer. Every year, there are 36,000 cases of cancer caused by HPV in the United States. The HPV vaccine can prevent up to 90% of cancers caused by the virus.

Don’t just take my word for it. Trust the advice of medical professionals. Many credible medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, support the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine is safe and effective. Doctors recommend that all adolescents be vaccinated against HPV at ages 9 to 12. Anyone age 26 or younger should get the vaccine, but it is recommended that children be vaccinated early to get the most protection. Adults ages 27 to 45 can also get the HPV vaccine if they determine it is best for them after talking to their doctors. The most common HPV vaccine in the U.S. is called Gardasil 9. With a simple series of two to three shots, your child can be protected against HPV. The HPV vaccine is like any other routine vaccine your child gets at annual doctor’s checkups.

Despite the many benefits of the vaccine, parents are still hesitant to vaccinate their children. Vaccination rates are low in Arizona. Only 63.1% of adolescents ages 13 to 17 were fully vaccinated against HPV in the state. This is far below the national goal of 80%. I doubt parents in Arizona want to leave their children unprotected.

Because HPV is sexually transmitted, some parents worry that getting the HPV vaccine will encourage their child to have sex. This is a myth. Plenty of research proves this is not true. One study showed that college students who were vaccinated against HPV did not have sex earlier than students who were not vaccinated. Rest assured, the HPV vaccine does not promote sexual activity and solely serves to protect your child if they are exposed to the virus in the future.

By vaccinating your child early, you can help protect them from cancer. It is a safe and effective choice to promote your child’s health. The HPV vaccine is usually free with most health insurance plans, and the Vaccines for Children program covers the cost for many people without insurance. Talk to your child’s doctor about the HPV vaccine at their next visit.