Finally, a scientific
breakthrough that offers significant protection against cervical
cancer and genital warts. Worldwide, over 500,000 cases of
cervical cancer are diagnosed in women each year. Now, the Human
Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine can offer women 70% protection
against the development of cervical cancer and genital warts
over a lifetime (see photo inset of patient with severe case of
genital warts.) The HPV vaccine protects against serotypes 6,
11, 16 and 18 of the Human Papilloma Virus. The Human Papilloma
Virus is sexually transmitted and is the known causative agent
of genital warts and cervical cancer in women. The HPV vaccine
offers optimal protection if received between the ages of 9 to
26 years of age. However, women beyond the age of 26 may benefit
from the vaccine if they have never been exposed to the Human
Papilloma Virus serotypes 16, 18, 6 and 11. The Gardisil HPV
vaccine is a three injection series given over a six month
period. The major side effect, noted in less than 5% of vaccine
recipients, is redness at the injection site. However, the HPV
vaccine is not a substitute for routine gynecological
evaluations and pap smears. But widespread use of the HPV
vaccine offers hope for a dramatic decline in deaths due to
cervical cancer over time. Click below to see a list of Health
Providers that administer the vaccine.
Click here for a list of HPV
vaccine providers. |
Severe case of Condyloma Accuminata
or genital warts
Graphic courtesy of
Prof. Erwin J. Haeberle |
