Cancer prevention

By Metro Creative

Though there may not be a cancer vaccine, that does not mean that vaccinations cannot play a role in cancer prevention.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some cancers, including cervical cancer and cancers of the vulva and oropharynx, are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. The CDC notes that the HPV vaccine protects people against the types of HPV that most often cause cancers.

Adults can discuss the benefits of HPV vaccinations with their physicians, as the CDC notes that adults between the ages of 27 and 45 may have already been exposed to HPV, meaning the HPV vaccination will provide less benefit.

Parents should know that the CDC recommends the HPV vaccination for preteens aged 11 to 12 years.

— Metro Creative