Protecting Future Generations: The Essential Role of HPV Vaccination in Cancer Prevention

By Sri Pranita Cherukuri and Carol Mulumba

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Human Papillomavirus (HPV), one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections, is the cause of nearly 36,000 cancer cases each year in the United States. With cancers associated with HPV impacting areas including the cervix, throat, and anus, the virus presents a significant public health issue. Nevertheless, an effective solution is available: the HPV vaccine, which serves as a highly efficient means of preventing these cancers.

The HPV vaccine provides protection against the virus strains that are most likely to lead to cancer. It is delivered in a series of doses and is most effective when given prior to any exposure to the virus, which usually occurs through sexual activity. The CDC advises vaccinating children at the age of 11 or 12 years.

While the HPV vaccination offers significant benefits, it’s important to address some common misconceptions. Some parents express concerns that vaccinating their children against a sexually transmitted infection could encourage early sexual activity. Ben Kahn, a PhD student on Health Behavior at UNC, Chapel Hill, states, “I think for some people there is a misplaced association of HPV with sex and beginning of sexual activity for children and teens.”

However, research indicates that there is no relationship between HPV vaccination and increased sexual behavior. Understanding the facts can help parents make informed choices about their children’s health.

Another common misconception is that the vaccine is only for females. “The HPV virus itself is very common,” Dr. Celia Quinn, Deputy Commissioner for the Division of Disease Control in the New York City Department of Health, noted. “Recent data suggests that over 40 million people in the US have an HPV infection. And a lot of those, about half, are in teens and young adults,” Dr. Quinn added. The vaccine protects against genital warts and cancers in both males and females.

In New York City, many underserved communities, especially low-income Black and Hispanic populations, face significant challenges when it comes to HPV-related cancers. Dr. Quinn highlighted how “there are disparities and we can look at it by neighborhood.” She continues, “The way that we know about vaccine uptake is because in New York City, vaccines administered to anyone under 18 are required to be reported into our citywide immunization registry. So, this is how we have a complete understanding of who is being vaccinated.”

A study published in the JAMA Network (Journal of the American Medical Association), noted that women living in the lowest socioeconomic status neighborhoods were 73% more likely to develop cervical cancer than those in the highest socioeconomic status neighborhoods. This disparity is influenced by several factors, including vaccine hesitancy, limited access to healthcare, and a deep-rooted mistrust of the medical system that has developed over time. It’s important that we acknowledge these issues and work together to address them for the sake of our communities.

Kahn further comments on the causes of poor vaccine uptake, “Access to care, I think that’s something that’s worth thinking about, because it might be something deeper and more systematic than just the HPV vaccine.” Racial disparities, misinformation, and structural barriers also hinder vaccination efforts.

To address these issues, healthcare providers must foster trust with patients and families. “We know that a provider recommendation directly to children and their families is the best way to increase uptake and acceptance of this vaccine and other vaccines,” Dr. Quinn emphasizes. “A lot of our work is with providers, helping them to encourage vaccination, helping them learn strategies to discuss the benefits of the vaccine with parents, and recommending vaccination at every opportunity starting at age nine.”

New York City offers resources to make the HPV vaccine accessible to all. The federal Vaccines for Children Program provides free vaccines to eligible children. Additionally, Merck’s Vaccine Patient Assistance Program offers free doses of Gardasil, the only available HPV Vaccine in the U.S, for individuals aged 19–45 who meet specific income and insurance criteria.

For healthcare providers, the city’s immunization registry ensures accurate tracking of vaccine coverage. Providers are encouraged to discuss the vaccine with families at every opportunity, emphasizing its role in cancer prevention. Mr. Kahn suggests “if you have a vaccine drive, or if you have weekend hours, or if you have nurse only visits, things that might make getting a vaccine easier for a parent or for, you know, a family when they come in… that can go a really long way towards driving uptake for HPV vaccine or for other vaccines”.

Public health campaigns are also vital in raising awareness. By educating parents and communities about the safety, efficacy, and importance of the HPV vaccine, New York City aims to close gaps in coverage and protect future generations. The HPV vaccine represents a public health success story, reducing HPV infections, genital warts, and cervical cancer rates significantly since its introduction. Yet, much work remains to ensure equitable access and uptake.

Dr. Quinn concludes, “It’s a really effective vaccine at preventing the types of the HPV virus that are likely to cause cancer. We definitely have a long way to go to meet our goals in terms of… achieving that.” For more information on the HPV vaccine and local resources, visit NYC Health’s HPV webpage or consult with your healthcare provider.

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