In a study at Pediatrics today, the newest HPV vaccine, Gardasil 9, can effectively prevent different kinds of cancer caused by human papillomavirus or HPV.
In a report by Forbes, the new vaccine which is manufactured by Merck, protects against nine strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), that cause cancer namely, cervical cancer, vaginal cancer cases, vulvar cancer, anal cancer, and genital warts. HPV is an infection that is primarily transmitted through direct or indirect skin to skin contact especially of the genitals during any type of sexual intercourse.
According to Dr. Stanley Block, a pediatrician in Bardstown, Kentucky, and a co-author of the study, "This vaccine is critically important because we're talking about four cancers we know absolutely for sure that it prevents - cervical, vulvar, anal and vaginal - and about two thirds of all oral cancers that it should prevent."
In the study, 99% of the preteen and teen participants all show sufficient antibody levels for all nine strains of HPV after getting three vaccination shots in monthly intervals. Their antibody levels continue to be strong two and a half years later.
Gardasil 9 protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58 that is why it is able to prevent 90% of all the cancers that can be caused by HPV.
While the implications of the new vaccine are tremendous, Gardasil does not fully prevent cancer, particularly those not caused by HPV according to the Gardasil Website. Hence, it is advised women to continue routine cervical cancer screenings.
Moreover, it must be clear that Gardasil does not treat cancer or genital warts. It is used to boost body immune system to prevent HPV type cancers.
Finally, Gardasil vaccination is not allowed to people who are severely allergic to yeast as well as women who are pregnant.
