By Elizabeth Gordon, EPDH, M.Ed., BS
The Oregon HPV Statewide Summit was held on May 31, 2018. The summit intended to raise awareness and educate participants on the link between Human papillomavirus (HPV) and cancer. HPV related cancer is on the rise. The vaccine that has been developed is underutilized for both boys and girls. Oropharyngeal cancers are now the most common HPV associated cancers.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends vaccinating for HPV. Parents need/want a recommendation from a healthcare provider. “A strong recommendation from you is the main reason parents vaccinate their children. The vaccine produces a better immune response in younger adolescents. Vaccinating in the preteen years is best.”(1) Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our younger population.
Talking points at the time of service/oral cancer screening
Be the one who starts this difficult conversation! The exchange could be as simple as a recommendation at their dental appointment during or following the oral cancer screening. Another opportunity to recommend the vaccine could be tied to medical history or when completing a risk assessment. Consider including a question asking if the patient has had the vaccine and how many doses. This question could be a conversation starter to either commend the parent/child, or to strongly recommend the vaccine and answer questions from the parent. Take sex out of the equation. Instead, try to use wording that emphasizes the cancer prevention aspect of the vaccine. Using personal stories is a great way to relate to patients. The HPV vaccine is cancer prevention and is effective at preventing infection with the types of HPV that cause most HPV cancers when given to a child before they are exposed to the virus. (2)
The American Cancer Society recommendations for HPV vaccine use
HPV vaccine produces the strongest immune response in preteens. HPV vaccines are most effective when administered at age 11 to 12. The vaccines are given in a series of shots.
- Routine HPV vaccination for girls and boys should be started at age 11 or 12. The vaccination series can be started as early as age 9.
- HPV vaccination is also recommended for females 13 to 26 years old and for males 13 to 21 years old who have not started the vaccines, or who have started but not completed the series. Males 22 to 26 years old may also be vaccinated.*
- HPV vaccination is also recommended through age 26 for men who have sex with men and for people with weakened immune systems (including people with HIV infection) if they have not previously been vaccinated.
*For people 22 to 26 years old who have not started the vaccines, or who have started but not completed the series, it’s important to know that vaccination at older ages is less effective in lowering cancer risk.
The Oregon Health Authority, in partnership with the Oregon Immunization Program, has created an educational brochure that is in the pilot phase. If your office is interested in participating in this pilot program, we can supply your office with them. The OHA will request feedback regarding its usefulness.
Where to refer families for vaccinations
Resources for patients and clinicians
The Oregon Health Authority and the American Cancer Society have brochures and informative materials geared toward both parent and clinicians.
Patient resources
Clinician/Provider resources
References
- HPV Vaccines - American Cancer Society, accessed 6/5/2018
- Take a Shot at Cancer, American Cancer Society, accessed 6/12/2018
