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Few Women Getting HPV Vaccine

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Though HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection out there, a new study has reported that only a fraction of young women and girls eligible for the vaccine are getting it. Research was presented at the American Academy of Cancer Research that showed that of the nearly 10,000 females ages 9-26, only 27 percent of those eligible for the vaccine went through with getting the first of the three doses. It's unclear whether all the patients studied had received a lot (or any) information about the vaccine while visiting their doctors.

The effects of getting only one of the three doses is also still under review and is being studied. There is no data that shows what the possibilities of the incomplete vaccine are. Young adult women ages 18-26 are the most likely to take all three doses. I wonder if it is because they are most likely to have the best access to reliable transportation, as well as getting information. They're able to take control over their sexual and overall health, so they're likely to be more responsible about getting the vaccine.

Though there was no collection of data as to why the patients chose not to take the two available HPV vaccines offered, it may be because individuals are unaware of the effects of HPV or are concerned about the range of side effects the vaccines may have.

HPV may cause genital warts for both males and females. And certain strains of the virus may cause cervical cancer. There is no known link between getting one type of HPV and then getting the other. It's important for women to be regularly screened for cervical cancer - early detection may allow for the disease to be treated even before it turns into cancer.

HPV is passed through genital contact - even if years have passed since having sex with someone who has HPV, a person can still contract the disease.

Make sure to ask your doctor and educate yourself and others about the importance of the HPV vaccine.

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Nina Jacinto
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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

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