Vaccinating children against HPV is effective in preventing several types of cancer
In 2006, the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine emerged as a crucial tool to prevent cervical cancer, initially targeted only at girls. Although it was later approved for children, acceptance in this group has been limited.
A recent study published in the journal Cell, Host and Microbe highlights the effectiveness of the vaccine when administered to both sexes, underscoring its role in reducing the risk of cervical cancer in girls.
The research, carried out in 33 cities in Finland, randomly assigned to vaccinate both boys and girls, only girls, or not vaccinate boys, offered a unique perspective. More than 11,000 children born between 1992 and 1994 were followed until age 18, along with 5,500 people who were followed at age 22.
Eight years after vaccination, a significant decrease in the HPV types responsible for 70% of cervical cancers was observed in cities that immunized both sexes.
Herd immunity
The concept of “herd immunity” was highlighted in the study, showing that vaccinating both girls and boys not only provides direct protection but also contributes to community protection. The lead author of the study, Ville Pimenoff, from the Karolinska Institute, points out that vaccinating exclusively girls would require twice as long to achieve the same impact as universal vaccination.
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Doctors specialized in gynecologic oncology and pediatrics support these findings, highlighting the need to promote HPV vaccination in both sexes. Dr Andrea Milbourne, MD Anderson Cancer Centre, highlights the connection between this study and the decline in genital warts in Australia, noting that the vaccine not only benefits those vaccinated but also has an impact on the wider community.
Dr. Danelle Fisher, a pediatrician at Providence Saint John Health Center, emphasizes the importance of understanding the risk for both girls and boys. Highly contagious HPV poses a significant risk to both sexes, and widespread vaccination is key to addressing this issue.
However, despite clear evidence of vaccine effectiveness, vaccination rates in the United States are not meeting expectations. In 2021, only 59% of adolescents between 13 and 15 years old received the recommended doses, and the rates are even lower in children.
Experts call on medical professionals and parents to take advantage of this “missed opportunity” and raise awareness about the importance of HPV vaccination. The vaccine, they point out, is not only a preventive measure against cervical cancer in girls but also protects boys from risks related to HPV.
