Thursday, March 5, 2015

HPV Vaccination for Cervical Cancer

A few years ago a vaccination to prevent cancer of the cervix in women was developed. It is recommended in girls at age 12 since the virus that causes the disease is sexually transmitted, and may be indicated in boys since they can carry the virus without symptoms.

Some sources and, unfortunately, several web sites are saying this should not be given since teens should practice abstinence and don't need it. They even say that this could promote promiscuity. To answer that a recent study (which should have been unnecessary) clearly showed that it does not.

Lets stop using blinders and understand that we cannot predict who will be exposed to this virus. The vaccine prevents cancer. All teens should get it.

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