Last Updated on March 13, 2025 by Brenda

Did you know there’s a vaccine that can prevent certain types of cancer?  This episode of Health IQ dives into the important topic of the HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine with special guest Carlos Marquez, pharmacist at Mesa Winds Pharmacy.  We discuss everything you need to know about this potentially life-saving vaccine.

HPV is a group of viruses, some of which can increase the risk of several cancers, including cervical, anal, genital, head, and neck cancers.  The HPV vaccine protects against the most common cancer-causing strains.  The current recommendation is for all boys and girls aged 9-14 to receive the vaccine, ideally at age 11 or 12.  It is a 2 shot vaccine given 6 months apart.  Those who start the vaccine series before age 15 only need two doses.  Individuals aged 15-26 are also recommended to get vaccinated if they were not vaccinated at a younger age, but require a three-dose series.  Adults aged 27-45 should discuss their risk factors with their healthcare provider to determine if the vaccine is right for them.

Vaccinating at a young age is crucial because HPV is a sexually transmitted infection.  Most adults have been exposed to the virus at some time or other.  The more exposures, the greater the risk of developing cancer.   Getting vaccinated before potential exposure offers the best protection against the virus and its associated cancers.  The Gardasil 9 vaccine is highly effective, offering approximately 96% protection against the cancers it covers.  This makes it one of the most effective cancer prevention tools available. 

While the vaccine is most effective before exposure, it can still offer some protection to those who have already been exposed to some strains of HPV. Talk to your healthcare provider to discuss your individual situation.  Many parents are concerned because their child is not sexually active and they don’t want to encourage this type of activity.   Best protection occurs when the vaccine is given before any potential exposure, which is why the target age group is pre-teens and young teens.

When the vaccine first came out over 20 years ago, it was only recommended for girls, because it was developed to protect against cervical cancers.  But as researchers focus on the causes of other cancers, they have discovered that strains of HPV viruses also cause cancers that men get, so the recommendations were revised to include boys.

Check with your local provider if you are wanting to get your child vaccinated for HPV.  You may also get it at large chain pharmacies.  The sides affects are minimal including pain or swelling at the site.  The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against several types of cancer. 

If you know someone who has elementary age children be sure to share this episode with them. The Cancer Blocking Vaccine