Decatur, TX – Each year, thousands of Americans are diagnosed with forms of cancer strongly linked to the human papillomavirus. Each year, thousands die from these cancers, such as oral, throat and cervical. A relatively new vaccine, however, can provide a way to stop HPV and its associated cancers in their tracks, but its relatively low use levels across the country are troubling the medical community.

“Vaccines that protect against HPV are now strongly recommended for both boys and girls with the series of shots starting around the age of 11 or 12,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at the North Texas Cancer Center at Wise. “The vaccine is considered a cancer preventative because it targets the family of viruses so closely associated with several forms of the disease.”

It is estimated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that about 9 out of 10 people will contract HPV infections during their lifetimes. HPV exposure does not always lead to the development of cancer, but it’s link to certain forms is undeniable. The vaccine is recommended for administration before people become sexually active because HPV is sexually transmitted. That is why the pre-teen years are targeted as the ideal time for starting the two-shot HPV series. Even so, it can still have protective values when administered to older children and people in their young adult years.

“Parents of young children should talk openly with their pediatricians about the benefits of vaccinating against HPV,” says Dr. Echt. “By providing a way to stop HPV-related cancers before they form, the vaccine has the potential to eradicate this cause of cancer in its tracks while potentially saving thousands of lives each year.”

About North Texas Cancer Center at Wise

North Texas Cancer Center at Wise, a division of Choice Cancer Care, is now operating as the Cancer Center at Wise Regional and is one of the most renowned cancer treatment centers in Texas. The center unites some of the best cancer doctors and surgeons, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists. Our expert team delivers superior cancer treatment in Texas, with the best results available.