HPV Vaccines

HAVE YOU EVER given money to help find a cure for cancer? You probably have: according to the Canadian Cancer Society, in 2016/17 Canadians donated more than $40-million specifically to cancer research (and much more to education and support programs). But did you know that for some cancers, we have something even better than a cure? We have prevention. The HPV vaccine prevents the development of an infection that is associated with almost all cases of cervical cancer, as well as a number of other forms of cancer. The problem is, despite that we can now prevent some cancers, many young people are not being vaccinated against HPV, and the reasons are simple: misinformation and discomfort.

MYTHS YOU MIGHT ENCOUNTER

1. You might hear that the HPV vaccine isn’t safe: Untrue. The vaccine has been widely demonstrated to be safe and effective. Despite online reports, credible medical research shows few side effects to the vaccine, and almost all reported side effects are minor reactions to the vaccination itself, such as sensitivity or minor swelling at the injection site. People who are immune-compromised should of course consult their doctors before being vaccinated.

2. You might hear that people don’t need to be vaccinated against an STI until they are sexually active: Untrue. The HPV vaccine works best if it’s given before a person becomes sexually active.

3. You might hear that the risk of being exposed to HPV is low: Untrue. Current statistics indicate that more than 75 percent of sexually active men and women will be infected with HPV during their lifetimes. Most people encounter HPV infections during their first three years of sexual activity.

4. You might hear that HPV affects only women, so boys don’t need the vaccination: Untrue. HPV infects boys and men as well as girls and women, and both sexes are at risk for transmitting the virus and developing HPV-related diseases, including several forms of cancer. Prevention is a much safer strategy than treatment.

SOME SOLID SOURCES OF INFORMATION

• http://immunizealberta.ca/i-need-know-more/common-questions/hpv

• http://hpvtool.albertapreventscancer.ca

• http://www.cancer.ca/en/prevention-and-screening/ be-aware/viruses-and-bacteria/human-papillomavirus-hpv/?region=on