Don't Risk It – Protect Your Family from Cervical Cancer

The HPV vaccine prevents most cervical cancers and is recommended for children ages 9 to 12. In this personal essay, Dr. Ron Yalon, a CityHealth pediatrician, shares why he urges every parent to vaccinate their children — and the patient story that changed his perspective forever.

“Between Pap smears and the HPV vaccine, cervical cancer should be a disease of the past.” — Dr. Ron Yalon, MD

A Medical Student’s Wake-Up Call

During medical school, instructors often said that studying medicine was like drinking from a fire hose. Because there is so much information flying at you, even the most talented students must do their very best to retain everything. As a matter of fact, I couldn’t help but wonder, “Why are some of these topics even taught? When am I ever going to see a patient with diphtheria?”

Indeed, that’s what I was thinking in the middle of a lecture about cervical cancer during my second year, way back in 2012.

HPV Vaccines Prevent Most Cervical Cancers

At the same time, cervical cancer just seemed so preventable. According to the World Health Organization, human papillomaviruses (HPV) cause at least 95% of all cervical cancers. Moreover, this doesn’t even include other cancers caused by HPV, such as oral cancers, anal cancers, penile cancers, and vulvar cancers.

Fortunately, the approved HPV vaccine has now been used for nearly 20 years. Research shows it prevents 90% of HPV-related cancers, with no long-term side effects. Given that, between regular Pap smears and the FDA-approved vaccination, I thought cervical cancer would be a disease of the past.

Yet six months later, I learned how wrong I was when I started caring for a woman diagnosed with metastatic cervical cancer.

By that time, she had already undergone multiple surgeries and chemotherapy. Sadly, our priority shifted to making her as comfortable as possible. She and I were the exact same age when her treatments failed. She died at 29 years old, leaving behind a husband and two children.

The bottom line? Her death could have been prevented.

Why This Vaccine Works Best When You Start Early

HPV screenings and regular Pap smears are an important part of cancer prevention and early detection. Because of what I witnessed, I now encourage parents to take ownership of their family’s health by vaccinating their children — and scheduling regular screenings for themselves. It’s something that none of us should go without.

Specifically, the two-dose vaccine series works best when started for both boys and girls between ages 9 and 12. As a result, the immune response is strongest when given before exposure to HPV. A three-dose series is needed for teens and young adults aged 15 to 26. Although the HPV vaccine doesn’t protect against all strains, it does prevent those most associated with cancer and genital warts.

What Is the HPV Vaccine?

The HPV vaccine used in the United States is called Gardasil 9. It protects against nine types of human papillomavirus, including the strains most likely to cause cervical, throat, anal, and penile cancers. In addition, it also guards against the strains that cause genital warts.

According to the CDC, this vaccination is one of the most effective cancer-prevention tools available today. Since its introduction in 2006, HPV infections in young women have dropped by more than 80% in the United States. Essentially, the vaccine trains the immune system to recognize and fight HPV before it can cause infection.

It’s important to note that the HPV vaccine does not treat existing infections. Instead, it prevents future ones. For this reason, health experts recommend vaccination before any potential exposure to the virus.

HPV Vaccine Schedule and Dosing

Generally, the recommended HPV vaccination schedule depends on the age when the first dose is given:

• Ages 9 to 14: Two doses, given 6 to 12 months apart. Because the immune response is so strong in this age group, only two doses are needed.
• Ages 15 to 26: Three doses, given over a six-month period (at 0, 2, and 6 months). This catch-up schedule ensures full protection for older teens and young adults.
• Ages 27 to 45: Adults in this range may still benefit from vaccination. However, they should talk with their doctor about whether the shot is right for them based on their individual risk.

Most importantly, the best time to vaccinate is before a child becomes sexually active. As a result, the vaccine can provide maximum protection before any exposure to the virus.

HPV Vaccine Side Effects and Safety

Parents often ask about side effects. Fortunately, serious reactions are very rare. The most common side effects include:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Headache or fatigue
• Dizziness or nausea (especially in teens who may feel anxious about shots)

Generally, these side effects go away on their own within one to two days. In fact, the CDC and the FDA have monitored the safety of this vaccination since 2006. After more than 135 million doses distributed in the U.S., the evidence consistently shows it is safe and effective.

To put it simply, the benefits far outweigh the risks. Unlike many cancers, cervical cancer is largely preventable — and this vaccination is a key reason why.

Where to Get the HPV Vaccine in San Leandro and Oakland

Above all, the pediatrics practice at CityHealth is a place where parents and children can receive high-quality, compassionate care in a welcoming environment. With approachable access to HPV immunization and other preventative care, I am confident that we are close to the day that cervical cancer is eradicated for good.

At CityHealth, we offer the HPV vaccine at both our San Leandro and Oakland (Montclair Village) locations. Plus, no appointment is needed — walk-ins are always welcome. Additionally, our pediatric urgent care team can answer any questions you have about the vaccination and your child’s immunization schedule.

Ultimately, until cervical cancer is eliminated, it is up to each and every one of us to take action when it comes to our family’s health and wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions About the HPV Vaccine

Is the HPV vaccine safe for my child?

Yes. Indeed, this vaccine has been used safely for nearly 20 years. Both the CDC and the WHO recommend it as a routine childhood vaccination. After more than 135 million doses in the U.S., the safety record is strong.

At what age should my child get the HPV vaccine?

Ideally, children should start between ages 9 and 12. At this age, only two doses are needed, and the immune response is strongest. However, catch-up vaccination is available for teens and adults up to age 26.

Do boys need the HPV vaccine too?

Absolutely. Because HPV causes cancers in both males and females, including throat and penile cancers, the vaccine is recommended for all children regardless of sex.

Does insurance cover the HPV vaccine?

Generally, most insurance plans cover this vaccination with no out-of-pocket cost for children and young adults. If you have questions about coverage, CityHealth’s team can help you understand your options.

Can adults get the HPV vaccine?

Yes. Although the vaccine works best when given before exposure to HPV, adults aged 27 to 45 may still benefit. Talk with your doctor about whether it is right for you.

Author: Dr. Ron Yalon, MD
CityHealth — Pediatrics

Dr. Ron Yalon, MD is a Pediatrics Specialist in Oakland, CA with over nine years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California from 2010-2014 and completed a residency program at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, Oakland. A compassionate advocate for children’s health, Dr. Yalon is dedicated to providing exceptional care and support for every young patient he treats.