HPV Vaccine

The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), of which there are many different strains is the leading cause of cervical cancer. The two main culprits are strain 16 and 18. Together they can be the cause of up to 70% of all cervical cancers. HPV can be prevented with a vaccine, hence why it is such an important tool in fighting this deadly condition.

Most would recommend girls between the ages of 9 and 26 to get the vaccine as it is deemed most effective before they may be exposed to HPV. However, the vaccine can still be used in women older than 26 as it is shown to be effective at reducing overall cervical cancer rates.

The recommended regimen is 3 vaccines over a 6 month period.

Once the vaccine course has been completed there is no need for a follow up vaccine (booster) at this stage. However, women should still be undergoing their regular pap smear screening.

Men can also have the HPV vaccine as it helps reduce the rates of penile cancer as well as genital warts.