HPV common, but vaccines can prevent cancer
By Krista Frank, DNP, CNM, FNP-C — nurse practitioner at Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Women’s Clinic
Last week, Dr. Emily Denney from Sheridan Memorial Hospital Primary Care, mammography technician Keshia Strauch, nurse navigator Lori Karajanis from the Welch Cancer Center and I had the pleasure of speaking with the Sheridan High School volleyball team, staff and family members.
Our overall goal was to assist the team members in gaining some comfort with health care staff, while also educating them on preventative care.
My part in this team effort was to discuss cervical cancer screening. Some of the mothers and staff were surprised to hear that we start screening at age 21. Also, everyone was surprised to hear that a majority of women actually do contract HPV (Human Papillomavirus) sometime in their lives.
HPV is the virus that causes most cervical cancers, however, there are many strains, some of which are oncogenic and others non-oncogenic (cancer causing or non-cancer causing). Many people are able to overcome the virus naturally (immune systems are amazing) within two years of contracting it. However, with certain strains of HPV (12 of the strains that are the most oncogenic) the immune system has a hard time ridding the body of the virus, which eventually can cause changes to the cells of the cervix (cervical dysplasia). Over time, more severe dysplasia can lead to cancer. Annually, about 200,000 cervical pre-cancers are identified. More than 4,000 deaths occur annually due to cervical cancer.
The team and I had a great discussion about how to prevent HPV infections. First, we discussed that HPV is sexually transmitted. If you are sexually active, you are at risk. We discussed that condoms are helpful, but not 100% effective in inhibiting the transmission of HPV. Many people are passing HPV to their partners without knowing it.
Most importantly, we talked about Guardasil-9, the HPV vaccine. I think we all have known someone who contracted any type of cancer and we thought how much we wished for a cure or a way to prevent it. I told the team, “Here it is! exactly what we have been wishing for!” A vaccination that both males and females can receive prior to onset of sexual activity, around 11 or 12 years of age, that prevents 90% of cervical cancers.
Even more good news, the use isn’t limited to adolescents. Teenagers, young adults, and in some cases people up to age 45 can receive the vaccine. The vaccine is also effective in preventing genital warts (caused by non-oncogenic types of HPV).
We really enjoyed having the team come visit, and appreciate them listening and asking great questions.
Protect yourself and your loved ones with early prevention. Schedule your cervical cancer screening or inquire about the Guardasil-9 vaccine at Sheridan Memorial Hospital Women’s Clinic by texting or calling 307.672.2522. Your health is our priority!