HPV Vaccine
The HPV vaccine protects against the two kinds of HPV that cause 70% of cervical cancer and the two strands of HPV that cause 90% of genital warts. HPV
HPV, the human papillomavirus, is a common sexually transmitted virus that usually has no symptoms and needs no treatment. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 50% of adults will have HPV at some point in their lives. Two strands of the hundred types of HPV cause 90% of genital warts and another two strands are the cause of 70% of cervical cancer cases. There is no treatment for HPV, but the conditions it causes can be treated. Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer-killer of women worldwide. The United States Congress has designated January as National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, recognizing the need for greater awareness and prevention. The American Cancer Society estimates that 9,710 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer and more than 3,700 died from the cancer during 2006 in the United States. The National Cancer Institute estimates that there will be 11,150 new cases of cervical cancer and 3,670 deaths in 2007. HPV causes more than 70% of all cases of cervical cancer, but is highly preventable with regular screening and vaccination. HPV Vaccine
In June 2006, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved an HPV vaccine. In clinical studies the vaccine has been 100% effective in preventing disease from the two high-risk types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. The vaccine, called Gardasil by the manufacturer, also targets the two HPV types that cause approximately 90% of all genital warts. The National Cancer Institute estimates that complete vaccination has the potential to reduce the number of cervical cancer deaths around the world by as much as two thirds. A second vaccine, Cervarix, has been as effective in clinical trials against the two HPV types that cause the majority of cervical cancers. It is expected to be submitted to the FDA in spring 2007. The FDA has licensed Gardasil as safe and effective. There have been no serious vaccine-related side effects reported thus far. Who should get vaccinated?
Given HPV is sexually transmitted, the vaccine should be received before a female becomes sexually active to be most effective. The FDA has approved Gardasil for girls and women aged 9-26. The federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends that the vaccine be given routinely to girls aged 11-12 and as early as aged 9, as well as 13-26 year-old girls and women who have not yet received or completed the vaccine series. The effects of the vaccine have not yet been studied on males. What is the cost of the vaccine?
The retail price of the vaccine is $120 per dose or $360 for the full series of three shots. Costs will vary by state, health plan and among programs for the uninsured and underinsured. All major insurance companies are planning to cover the cost of the
vaccination. How can women get the HPV vaccine?
If you meet the age requirements for the FDA-approved vaccine, you should contact your doctor's office, state department of health, or local health care clinic to find out if it is offered. If insured, you should contact your insurance company to learn if they cover the cost of the vaccine.
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