Boys and girls should get vaccinated against HPV between the ages of 9 and 12 to help prevent six types of cancers later in life.
HPV Vaccine Information
HPV-related cancer incidence is high in Iowa, and impacts both men and women. We have a safe, effective vaccine that can prevent 90% of the 6 cancers caused by HPV including: cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, penile, and throat cancer.
Iowa currently has the highest rate of new oral cavity and pharynx (throat) cancers in the US, which can be HPV-related. It is estimated that HPV causes 70% of oropharyngeal cancer (a type of throat cancer)!
Since HPV vaccination was introduced in the U.S. in 2006, among vaccinated women, the percentage of cervical precancers caused by the HPV strains most often linked to cervical cancer has dropped 40%.
Why does this matter?
- HPV affects everyone- both men and women.
- About 80% of people will get an HPV infection in their lifetime.
- Every year, HPV infects 13 million people
In 2021, 46.2% of eligible Iowa adolescents completed their HPV series. The Healthy People 2030 goal is 80% completion.
HPV is very common. HPV causes about 36,500 cancers per year. HPV also causes genital warts.
Vaccines are safe! Over 10 years of HPV vaccine safety data
109 studies of 2.5 million people in 6 countries have shown:
No serious side effects.
Typical reactions to all vaccines. may include some soreness or redness where the vaccine was given, dizziness, headache or nausea.
Need help paying for vaccines?
The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program helps families of eligible children who might not otherwise have access to vaccines. The program provides vaccines at no cost to children ages 18 years and younger who are uninsured, Medicaid- eligible, or American Indian/Alaska Native.
To learn more, go to:
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/vfc/
Learn more about the HPV vaccine and its importance
Resources
- I want to learn more about vaccines – Including immunization schedules and which vaccines are recommended for each stage of life.
- I want to find out where I can get vaccinated – Most recommended vaccines are available at your doctor’s office, but there are other options, including low-cost and no-cost access.
- I want to learn how to talk to my parents about getting vaccinated – Tips for teens who want vaccinations but their parents have reservations.
- I want to learn how to talk to others about vaccines – Tips for how young people can navigate friendships when it comes to vaccines.
HPV Vaccination is Cancer Prevention Rack Cards
Note, these are print-ready with crops and bleeds.
They can be printed 3 to a page on an 8.5 by 11 sheet of paper or card stock.
You decide.
