Cervical cancer: Here’s why preteens need the HPV vaccination

Kids in their preteens are also prone to HPV infections, so it is better to get them vaccinated against it before it's too late! Read on to know why it's important and when you should get them vaccinated.
chickenpox vaccine
Vaccination is the best way to prevent chickenpox! Image courtesy; Adobe Stock
Dr Padma Srivastava Published: 23 Jan 2023, 11:44 am IST
  • 190

Did you know kids in their preteen years are also prone to cancer? They should be vaccinated against cancer by the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination which guards them against cancers brought on by various HPV subtypes. Cervical cancer and malignancies of the mouth, throat, and penis are all prevented by the HPV vaccination. And it shields against genital warts. The vaccination is quite safe and effective, and children should receive it when advised. Here’s when and why your preteen needs the HPV vaccine to avoid cancer.

Why is the HPV vaccination necessary for your preteen?

Cervical cancer is the most prevalent of the several malignancies brought on by HPV. Women are more likely than males to develop cervical cancer. If teenagers and young adults have intercourse with an infected partner, HPV may affect them at an early age. Many people are unaware of their infection status even if there are no symptoms or indicators of the disease.

HPV vaccine
Why is the HPV vaccination necessary for your preteen? Image courtesy: Shutterstock

You can protect your kids, long before they are exposed to the virus’s strains, against cancer with HPV vaccination. Getting vaccinated against the disease at an early age can protect the child to a certain level if they are exposed to sexual activities later. This is why getting your preteen vaccinated against the disease should be at the top of your priority list. In fact, girls are more prone to such viruses than boys.

The sooner, the better!

Any parent who has a kid between the ages of 9 and 14 should get their kids vaccinated. The best way to protect your kid against several types of malignancies linked to HPV is by the HPV vaccination. If not already immunized, the Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of India (FOGSI) advises HPV immunization between the ages of 9 and 45.

It has been demonstrated that the HPV vaccination is more effective if given to children before they enter adolescence. This is due to the fact that HPV infections may only happen during sexual activity. Therefore, the best strategy to assure optimum effectiveness is to provide the vaccination before a youngster engages in sexual activity.

Also Read: The only guide you need to know about HPV vaccination

Why is it recommended at a young age?

Preteens will create more antibodies after receiving the vaccine than older teens or adults, hence it is advised that the vaccine be administered at a young age. Preteens are therefore more protected with fewer dosages than their older counterparts.

Getting vaccinated against HPV as early as 11 might be unsettling for many parents since HPV is a sexually transmitted illness, but it is important. This is the suggested age to get your child immunised.

HPV vaccinations are important for both genders!

Even though girls are more vulnerable to HPV infections, it doesn’t mean that boys should not be vaccinated against the disease. The HPV vaccination is recommended for male youngsters for several reasons. Both sexes are capable of carrying HPV strains, which, if shared, can result in penis and anus cancers in addition to genital warts in both sexes. Even if a male kid never demonstrates any symptoms of an HPV infection, he can function as a carrier and spread the virus to anybody with whom he has intercourse, increasing their chance of developing malignancies like cervical cancer.

HPV vaccine
Why is the HPV vaccination necessary for your preteen? Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Takeaway

The Covid-19 pandemic disrupted health schedules everywhere in the world, and many patients haven’t received other vaccinations on time. Many people are still overdue for their HPV screenings and vaccinations. Children and teenagers must obtain the recommended HPV vaccination in addition to all other recommended immunisations to prevent such malignancies.

Select Topics of your interest and let us customize your feed.

PERSONALISE NOW

Women and individuals born with a gender preference should be examined for cervical cancer starting at age 21. The most vulnerable risk groups for cervical cancer are individuals who have not received the vaccine, or past due for screenings, and had an abnormal result but did not obtain follow-up care.

  • 190
About the Author

Dr Padma Srivastava, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Lullanagar, Pune. ...Read More

Next Story