Safeguard your children against cervical cancer, schedule their HPV shot

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can have serious health implications. With advances in medical science, however, a preventive measure in the form of a vaccination has emerged as a powerful tool to combat its effects.

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women globally, and the majority of cases are caused by persistent HPV infections. Moreover, HPV can lead to other health issues, including other cancers and genital warts. HPV vaccination plays a pivotal role in reducing the prevalence of these health issues and thereby lowering the risk of the cancers caused by the virus.

As a result, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare (JHAH) is conducting an HPV campaign to encourage everyone to get their children vaccinated. HPV vaccines are not limited to a specific gender; both males and females can benefit, as it provides protection against HPV-related cancers and other health complications for all. 

By getting vaccinated, you’re actively safeguarding yourself against the risks of HPV-related health issues and empowering others to do the same. The HPV vaccine isn’t just a shot; it's yet another example of JHAH’s commitment to your health and wellness. 

Prevention is more than just an idea; it's a proactive choice each of us makes every day. By getting the HPV vaccine and participating in the campaign, you’re taking control of your personal health journey and demonstrating the transformative potential of preventive healthcare.

HPV vaccination benefits

Cancer prevention: The primary benefit of the HPV vaccination is its role in preventing various types of cancers. By targeting the most common high risk HPV strains, the vaccine helps reduce the risk of cervical, anal, vaginal, vulvar, and oropharyngeal cancers.

Long-lasting immunity: Studies show that the immunity provided by HPV vaccination provides long-term protection that can last for years. 

Reducing your health care burden: HPV-related diseases often require extensive medical interventions, including surgeries, chemotherapy, and other treatments. By preventing these diseases, the vaccination contributes to the quality of your life and correspondingly the quality of life for your entire family. 

Reducing community health care burden: Widespread HPV vaccination safeguards not only the vaccinated individual, it also contributes to a phenomenon known as herd immunity. This means that as more people get vaccinated, transmission of the virus within that population diminishes, indirectly protecting even those who haven’t been vaccinated.

Earlier the better

HPV vaccines are most effective when administered before you or your loved one is exposed to the virus. Starting vaccination as early as nine years of age provides the best chance for building immunity and preventing HPV-related health issues in the future. For more information, talk to your primary care physician or your child’s pediatrician. 

The JHAH HPV Campaign is for children 9-14 years old and runs August 20 to September 28. Take your children to the JHAH Primary Care Immunization Room to receive the vaccination. No appointment is necessary.