WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO INCREASE HPV VACCINATION UPTAKE AMONG US ADOLESCENTS AGES 11-14 FOR THE PREVENTION OF HPV-ASSOCIATED CANCERS

Abstract

This research analysis provides an overview of why it is important to increase Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination uptake among adolescents ages 11-14 for the prevention of HPV-associated cancers within the United States. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that affects a high proportion of adolescents shortly after becoming sexually active. HPV is known to cause various types of cancers over time. Unfortunately, only cervical cancer can be detected early through a screening test. The other cancers caused by HPV can go undetected until they become more serious. The best preventive measure against HPV is the HPV vaccine starting early at ages 11-14 years. However, while HPV vaccine coverage among US adolescents ages 11-14 has increased recently, it still remains low in comparison to other vaccines. METHODS: MEDLINE/PubMed, The Journal of Infectious Diseases, JAMA Network Open, National Cancer Institute, and the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health database searches were conducted for US-based original research articles and studies to examine the ins and outs of HPV vaccination among adolescents within the United States. In addition, I reviewed information from The Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The search focused on identifying why it is important to increase HPV vaccination uptake among adolescents 11-14 years old for the prevention of HPV- associated cancers. Overall, 15 of the most relevant research articles and studies were included in this analysis, providing evidence-based research on what future efforts could prevent HPV-associated cancers in the United States.