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Ask the Doctor

All About HPV

Learn how to stay protected from HPV

 

 

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Human papillomavirus (HPV) prevention begins early, and the HPV vaccine is one of the most effective ways to protect against the virus. In fact, getting vaccinated can prevent up to 90% of HPV‑related cancers, including cervical, oropharyngeal and anal cancers.

 

For National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, PULSE Magazine spoke to Dr. Daniel Reichert, chair of Family Medicine at Loma Linda University Health, to learn more about HPV and how to stay protected.

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Dr. Daniel Reichert

Eight out of 10 people will be diagnosed with HPV at some point in their lives. At what age should we start discussing HPV prevention methods with your primary care physician?

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and American Academy of Family Physicians recommend routine HPV vaccination at age 11 for girls and boys to prevent future HPV infections and the resulting associated cancers. However, starting the vaccine series as early as age 9 is strongly encouraged to ensure timely protection and avoid any delay in safeguarding against HPV-related diseases.

HPV causes nearly 40,000 cancers in the United States annually. How do HPV infections spread?

HPV is transmitted primarily through sexual contact including vaginal, anal and oral sex. It is important to vaccinate children well before any potential sexual contact.

How many people become infected with HPV each year?

It is estimated there are 13 million new HPV infections each year in the United States.

As we age, cervical cancer screenings are encouraged at least every five years. While some testing options can be invasive, how can I work with my PCP to decide which option is best for me?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends cervical cancer screenings begin routinely at age 21 with a Pap test performed by your primary care physician every three years through the age of 29.

 

At 30, HPV testing can be performed every five years with a sample obtained by your PCP or every three years with the option of self-collection, where the patient gathers their own sample using a soft vaginal swab or device supplied by their clinician.

 

If patients have had previously abnormal screening tests or cervical cancer, there will likely be different recommendations for ongoing screening, and they should closely follow the instructions of their clinician.

Stay healthy with needed vaccines

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Stay healthy with needed vaccines
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Stay healthy with needed vaccines

IEHP members can get all the vaccines you need at no cost. You can also find schedules for your shots and checkups in your Member Handbook. Ask your doctor for an immunization record card and bring it with you to each checkup. Together, we can protect the next generations from cancer. To learn more, check out ways to keep your kids healthy with needed vaccines.