HPV and Cervical Cancer

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that in 2006, approximately 9,700 cases of cervical cancer were diagnosed in the United States, and approximately 3,700 women died from the disease.

Cervical infection with HPV is the main risk for cervical cancer, as HPV can cause changes in the cervix. In fact, nearly all cervical cancer cases are associated with an HPV infection.

About the HPV Vaccine

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the HPV vaccine for females 9 to 26 years of age to prevent cervical cancer caused by HPV. The CDC recommends a three-dose schedule for the HPV vaccine with the second and third doses administered two and six months after the first dose. Routine vaccination for girls 11 to 12 years old is also recommended.

Because the vaccine is new, it may not be available everywhere. Also, the new vaccine does not protect against every type of HPV infection and can’t prevent all cervical cancers. It is still vitally important to get regular gynecological exams and pap smears.

If you are interested in obtaining the HPV vaccine, please contact your physician to find out if they administer the vaccine. Please visit TriWest online at www.triwest.com if you have questions regarding your TRICARE benefits, or call us at 1-888-TRIWEST (874-9378).