The American Cancer Society announced Wednesday, June 6, 2018 that the organization is launching a public health campaign to eliminate vaccine-preventable HPV cancers, starting with cervical cancer. Their goal is to reach an annual vaccination rate of 80% of young people by 2026. It’s a daunting goal – but with the combined support of all the organizations working to improve HPV vaccination, it is possible.
As you may know, the human papillomavirus (HPV) causes six types of cancer and is a common infection. In fact, 9 out of 10 adults – both men and women – are infected with HPV at some point in their lives. Fortunately, we have a vaccine that will prevent this infection from ever occurring and therefore prevent many of the cancers it causes. Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV. Through vaccination of young adolescents, and screening of women, we have the tools to eliminate cervical cancer.
In the United States, 6 out of 10 of girls and boys aged 13-17 have started the HPV vaccination series, but only 4 out of 10 of girls and boys are up to date on getting the full series. We have a long way to go and we need your support.
NOMAN raises awareness about the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) related cancer epidemic in men and women, and campaigns for universal HPV vaccination, while challenging participants to extreme endurance races across the world. Our events have engaged people worldwide as to the importance of this crucial health intervention. We have an unprecedented opportunity to save lives and reduce the HPV cancer burden. HPV vaccines are proven to be safe, effective, and provide lasting protection.
Anal Cancer Foundation collaborates with advocates and legislators,generates media attention and creates athletic events to educate a broader audience on the importance of protecting all children against HPV and encouraging the implementation of policy changes to achieve 100% protection for all children. In 2011, we formed and led a coalition of 12 organizations to submit multiple joint testimonies to the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to provide males with the same access to the vaccine as females. In October 2011, the CDC voted in favor of routine HPV vaccination for males. The HPV vaccination is now recommended for all 12-13-year-old males and females. We continue to participate in the HPV Roundtable, the New York City Immunization Coalition, and present on the consequences of HPV-related cancers in public forums.
What can I do to help prevent HPV-related cancers?
- If you are a parent, ask your provider to talk with you about vaccinating both your male and female children against HPV
- Encourage your paediatrician or general practitioner to join the growing coalition of doctors and scientists that support gender-neutral vaccination
To see a world free of HPV-related cancers we must act now. Will you take a stand to eliminate HPV cancers?
