Canadian Pediatricians Support HPV Vaccine For Girls Aged 9-13

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Main Category: Cervical Cancer / HPV Vaccine
Also Included In: Pediatrics / Children's Health;  Women's Health / Gynecology;  Sexual Health / STDs
Article Date: 26 Sep 2007 - 6:00 PST

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The Canadian Pediatric Society (CPS) said in a statement that all girls aged 9-13 should receive the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine. The Society also advises that girls considered at higher risk of early sexual activity be targeted.

Dr. Lindy Samson, main author of the statement, HPV vaccine for children and adolescents, published in Pediatrics & Child Health this month, said "HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection," "The HPV vaccine prevents girls and women from getting infected with HPV. The vaccine significantly lowers the risk of cervical cancer."

Approximately from 10% to 29% of Canadian citizens are infected with HPV - the incidence is higher for people under 25. The virus is acquired most commonly during the first five years of sexual activity. HPV is the leading cause of cancer of the cervix (cervical cancer). In order to provide protection the vaccine has to be administered before the onset of any sexual activity. The CPS says that about 17% to 23% of Canadian children/teens have their first sexual intercourse by Grade 9.

Dr. Samson, CPS Infectious Diseases and Immunization Committee, said "Along with the vaccine, enhanced sexual education is critical so that girls don't get a false sense of security. Girls and young women need to be educated on how to have the safest possible sexual relationships in order to minimize their risk of acquiring any sexually transmitted infections. In addition, sexually active vaccinated girls must still participate in cervical cancer screening programs, such as routine Pap smears."

A catch up program for girls aged at least 13 is also recommended by the CPS. The Society informs that several provinces already have vaccination programs. Dr. Samson said that the vaccine has proven to be safe for girls and women over the age of 9.

The vaccine protects against four strains of HPV, and was approved for use in Canada in 2006.

-- Click here to view the full CPS statement online

Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Copyright: Medical News Today
Not to be reproduced without permission of Medical News Today