Is it time to get the HPV vaccine?

When cancer prevention comes up, often we think of healthy habits such as eating fruits and vegetables and staying active. But don’t forget the HPV vaccine!

The HPV vaccine is the world’s first cancer vaccine and it can prevent six types of cancer. Nicholas C. Lambrou, MD, chief of gynecologic oncology at Luminis Health, answers several common questions about the HPV vaccine below.

At what age should people receive the HPV vaccine?

• Children should receive the HPV vaccine along with their other routine pediatric vaccines between ages 9 to 12 years old.

Which cancers does the HPV vaccine protect against?

• The HPV vaccine protects against cervical cancer, cervical precancer, oropharyngeal cancer, anal cancer, vulvar and vagina cancer and penile cancer.

What are the risks?

• Providers have safely administered the HPV vaccine since 2009. Talk to your doctor about any specific concerns for you or your child.

How can I get the vaccine?

• Many providers are able to administer the vaccine, including pediatricians, primary care physicians and gynecologists. If you need to find a provider, please call 443-481-1000.

Authors

Nicholas C. Lambrou, MD, FACOG, FACS, is the chief of gynecologic oncology at Luminis Health. Dr. Lambrou’s areas of interest include the treatment of women with gynecologic cancer, cancer prevention strategies and advanced gynecologic surgery.