Understanding HPV: A Silent but Dangerous Virus
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of over 200 viruses, more than 40 of which can spread through sexual contact. Nearly everyone who isn’t vaccinated against HPV will contract it at some point in their lives. While most infections resolve on their own, some persist and lead to severe health problems, including six different types of cancer.
HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, most commonly during sexual activity. The virus is best known for causing cervical cancer, which kills approximately 4,000 women in the U.S. each year. However, HPV is also responsible for other cancers, including those of the throat, anus, penis, vulva, and vagina. In total, HPV causes nearly 36,500 cases of cancer annually in the U.S.
No Cure, But Prevention is Possible
Currently, there is no cure for HPV. While infections often clear on their own, persistent strains of the virus can lead to cancerous cell changes over time. Treatment for HPV-related cancers, such as oropharyngeal cancer, can be grueling, involving chemotherapy, radiation, and sometimes surgery.
Chris Riley, a once-healthy 57-year-old, learned this the hard way when a sore throat and swollen lymph nodes led to a devastating diagnosis of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer. Despite aggressive treatment, the disease spread, and he ultimately lost his battle at age 60.
A Safe and Effective Vaccine
The HPV vaccine is a powerful tool in preventing these cancers. Approved by the FDA in 2006, the vaccine protects against the strains most likely to cause cancer. Studies show that the vaccine prevents about 90% of HPV-related cancers.
Countries with widespread HPV vaccination programs have seen dramatic results. In Scotland, for instance, researchers found no cases of cervical cancer in women who received their first HPV shot at age 12 or 13. In the U.S., the vaccine has led to a 79% reduction in cervical precancers among women ages 20-24.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends HPV vaccination for all boys and girls at ages 11 or 12, though it can be given as early as age 9.
- Ages 9-14: Two doses, six to twelve months apart
- Ages 15-26: Three doses over six months
Although initially recommended only for young women, the vaccine is now advised for all individuals up to age 26. The FDA has also approved it for adults up to age 45, though its effectiveness decreases for those who have already been exposed to the virus.
The Challenge of Low Vaccination Rates
Despite its proven safety and effectiveness, HPV vaccination rates in the U.S. lag behind those of other routine vaccines. Only about 61% of adolescents aged 13-17 have completed the series, compared to 88% for the meningococcal vaccine and 89% for the tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine.
Misinformation, vaccine hesitancy, and cultural stigma contribute to low uptake. Some falsely believe the vaccine promotes promiscuity, while others underestimate the risks of HPV. Certain communities, including people of color and those in rural areas, have lower vaccination rates, further widening health disparities.
The Cost of Inaction
Without widespread HPV vaccination, preventable cancers will continue to claim lives. The consequences can be devastating, as seen in the case of Chris Riley, who reflected on his struggle before his passing. “It just seems really strange to me that a parent would have an opportunity to protect their kid against something like what I’ve been through and yet would forgo that opportunity,” he said.
A Call to Action
Doctors and health officials stress the importance of educating parents and young people about the vaccine’s benefits.
“The HPV vaccine is crucial,” says Dr. Carlos O’Bryan-Becerra, a family physician. “Unfortunately, many patients, their families, and even clinicians are unaware that HPV causes cancers beyond the cervix. This lack of awareness makes it even more important to promote the vaccine as a cancer prevention tool.”
Preventing cancer is far easier than treating it. The HPV vaccine is safe, effective, and long-lasting. With over 135 million doses administered in the U.S. and more than 15 years of research backing its safety, there is no logical reason to forgo this lifesaving protection.
Every parent should ensure their child is vaccinated. Every adult under 45 should discuss the vaccine with their doctor. HPV-related cancers are largely preventable—choosing to vaccinate is choosing to save lives.
