As summer ends and the new school year begins, San Diego County health officials are emphasizing the importance of the HPV vaccine to protect children against cancer. HPV teeth Linked According to the National Cancer Institute, there are six types of cancer that affect both men and women, which is why it’s important for both sexes to get vaccinated.
Dr. Evan GraboisA head and neck specialist at the Medical University of South Carolina said the US goal is to achieve 80% vaccination coverage among teenagers, but current coverage stands at 63%.
his the study A startling trend emerged: 65% of socio-economically advantaged parents said they were likely not to start or complete the HPV vaccination series, compared with 40% of disadvantaged parents. While advantaged parents often cited safety concerns, parents from disadvantaged families cited lack of knowledge and lack of doctor recommendation as barriers.
“This study highlights which groups are most socially advantaged and what messaging may be needed to improve vaccination rates among these groups in the future,” Graboys said.
Dr. Eric Hogan Doctors at the Scripps Clinic point out that the incidence of HPV-related head and neck cancer in men now exceeds the incidence of cervical cancer in women, and recommend early vaccination starting at age 9.
“The HPV virus is something that about 80 percent of adults will be infected with in their lifetime. Early vaccination provides stronger protection against these cancers,” he said.
The vaccine is not mandatory, but Hogan thinks it should be required in schools, and he urges parents to think of it as a cancer prevention measure rather than linking it to sexual activity.
He said the vaccine is safe and easy to obtain.
“HPV was introduced 18 years ago and has been studied for decades before that. We’ve reached 80 percent and it’s time to say goodbye to HPV.”
