The human papillomavirus (HPV) is so common that, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI), nearly all sexually active people will be exposed to it at some point in their lives. For most, the virus goes away on its own. But for some, certain high-risk strains can linger and cause cancer years—even decades—later.
That’s why HPV vaccination is so important. Dartmouth Cancer Center (DCC) recently joined 61 other major cancer centers in signing a joint statement reaffirming support for HPV vaccination. Why? “It’s a powerful tool to prevent six types of cancer,” says Gynecologic Oncologist Ariel M. Kredentser, MD. He shares what he tells patients and families about the vaccine—and helps clear up some of the confusion and myths that surround it.
The connection between HPV and cancer
Most HPV infections are short-lived and cleared by the immune system, says Kredentser. “But certain high-risk HPV types can cause persistent infections that interfere with normal cellular function, leading to the accumulation of mutations that drive cancer development.”
HPV vaccination protects against these specific high-risk types of HPV most likely to cause cancer. “Gardasil 9, the current vaccine, covers the nine HPV types responsible for about 90% of all HPV-related cancers,” Kredentser explains. “It doesn’t treat existing infections or protect against non-HPV-related cancers, but it’s highly effective in preventing new infections with those high-risk types.”
Why vaccinate so young?
Parents often ask why HPV vaccination is recommended for children as young as nine. Kredentser explains that the answer lies in timing.
“The vaccine is most effective before exposure to HPV,” he says. “Since HPV is sexually transmitted, we vaccinate early—before the onset of sexual activity—to provide the best possible protection.”
Vaccination at younger ages also leads to a stronger immune response, requiring fewer doses.
The HPV vaccine is for boys, too
Cervical cancer is the most commonly known HPV-related cancer. Why, then, do boys need the HPV vaccine, too? Kredentser clarifies that HPV affects everyone.
“HPV vaccination for boys works directly by reducing the risk of penile, anal, and oropharyngeal (throat) cancers, and indirectly by reducing the transmission of HPV to others,” he says. This is of particular interest due to the rising rates of oropharyngeal cancers in the U.S. (now greater than cervical cancer) and the lagging rates of vaccination in boys.
Addressing common misconceptions
Contrary to misinformation online, the safety record of HPV vaccination is exceptionally strong.
“The first HPV vaccine was developed in 2006,” Kredentser says. “Since then, multiple studies around the world have shown that HPV vaccines are safe, effective, and associated with significant reductions in HPV-related cancers and precancerous conditions.” The current 9-valent vaccine (vaccine that protects against 9 types of the virus) has been around since 2014.
Kredentser notes that no evidence links HPV vaccination to increased adverse events, pregnancy complications, or even death. “The vaccine doesn’t cause the problems people sometimes worry about,” he says. “But it does prevent diseases that can cause real suffering later in life.”
One of the most common misconceptions Kredenster hears is that vaccinating adolescents somehow encourages sexual activity. “That has been repeatedly disproven. The data are clear—the HPV vaccine does not change or lead to earlier or riskier sexual behavior.”
Another misconception is that a child who isn’t sexually active doesn’t yet need the vaccine. Kredentser stresses that waiting too long means missing the window when the vaccine works best. “Even if an adolescent is not yet sexually active, that doesn’t make vaccination unnecessary,” he says. “It should still be part of routine preventive care.”
Prevention is always easier than treatment
By the time Kredentser’s patients come to see him, they are already facing a cancer diagnosis. “Their fears are often focused on treatment and prognosis,” he says. “And that’s understandable—treating cervical, vulvar, or vaginal cancers can involve potentially radical surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy. These treatments save lives, but they can have long-term effects and deeply impact quality of life. And not all of these cancers can be cured, not even early-stage disease.”
That’s why Kredentser is such a strong advocate for prevention. “It’s always easier to prevent cancer than to treat it,” he emphasizes. “HPV vaccination gives us that opportunity.”
Accessing HPV vaccination
HPV vaccines are available in most pediatric and primary care offices, OBGYN practices, and at many pharmacies. Kredentser encourages families to talk with their healthcare providers if they have questions.
“HPV vaccination is cancer prevention,” he says. “It’s one of the most effective ways we have to protect the next generation.”
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