The human papillomavirus, or HPV, is very common. In fact, almost everyone will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives, and the virus can cause cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and throat cancers.
Fortunately, a vaccine is available that can prevent HPV infection and the six cancers caused by HPV.
The HPV vaccine series is safe and effective and has been in use for more than 10 years. The series is for both boys and girls, and it is most effective when administered before the age of 13.
The HPV vaccine delivers on a dream many have held for decades: a cancer prevention vaccine. Unfortunately, vaccination rates are far too low both in the United States and around the world. The U.S. lags behind other developed countries in protecting our children against HPV cancers.
We have the opportunity to put a stop to more than 31,000 new cases of cancer each year. And if we vaccinate all of our 11- and 12-year-olds, we could see the first generation of HPV cancer-free adults.
It’s time to protect boys and girls from cancer-causing HPV. It’s time to make HPV cancers a thing of the past. Talk to your physician and learn more at cancer.org/HPV.