By James Hallahan
University of Kentucky
Kentucky continues to face high rates of cancers caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) — many of which are preventable through vaccination. The HPV vaccine can prevent over 90% of sexually transmitted cancers caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), including cervical, anal, penile, vaginal, vulvar and head/neck cancers.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine HPV vaccination for all children — girls and boys — at ages 11 or 12, though it can start as early as age 9. When started before age 15, only two doses are needed. If vaccination begins at age 15 or older, a three-dose series is recommended to ensure full protection.
While vaccination is most effective when given early, that doesn’t mean it’s too late for everyone. The HPV vaccine is now licensed for use through age 45. For adults ages 27 through 45, the CDC recommends shared clinical decision making — a conversation between you and your health care provider about your personal risks and potential benefits of vaccination.
Even in adulthood, people can still acquire new HPV infections, especially when entering new relationships or if they haven’t been previously vaccinated. Talking with your doctor, pharmacist, nurse practitioner or other health professional can help you decide whether vaccination makes sense for you.
In addition to the HPV vaccine, it’s important for women to get regular screenings for prevention and early diagnosis of cervical cancer. Also known as a pap smear, this test looks for cancerous cells on the cervix, and can even find precancerous changes that have not yet developed into cancer. Screenings usually begin at age 21 or three years after first sexual intercourse. Talk to your doctor about a timeline for regular screenings.
One reason the vaccine — and for females, cervical screenings — is so important is because HPV-related cancers often don’t cause obvious symptoms until more advanced stages. For cervical cancer, some of the most common symptoms reported include abnormal bleeding or bleeding after sexual intercourse, and an abnormal discharge. As the cancer advances further, it can cause urinary blockage, back pain, leg swelling, or neuropathic pain, such as a “pins and needles” sensation in the skin.
James Hallahan, Pharm.D. is director of retail and community pharmacy services at University of Kentucky Healthcare