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For adults who haven’t yet received the HPV vaccine, there’s positive news: A federal advisory committee has voted to extend the vaccine recommendation for men up to age 26 (previously, it was advised for women up to 26 and men up to 21), with a “cautious recommendation” for individuals up to age 45.
The HPV vaccine guards against multiple strains of human papillomavirus, a virus linked to genital warts and various cancers. While HPV doesn’t always result in cancer, it’s highly prevalent, meaning most individuals will encounter the virus during their sexual lives. During a pap smear, your gynecologist screens for early indicators of cervical cancer caused by HPV. Additionally, HPV can lead to oral cancers and, in rarer cases, anal and penile cancers.
These updated guidelines stem from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Once the CDC formally adopts these recommendations, most insurance providers will be required to cover the vaccine as advised. (Without coverage, the vaccine costs approximately $200 per dose, with adults needing three doses.) This ensures men up to age 26 can access the vaccine without issue, while those aged 26 to 45 can obtain it after consulting their physician. (The vaccine is approved only for individuals up to age 45.)
The optimal time to receive the HPV vaccine remains during childhood, ideally before sexual activity begins, which is why it’s included in the immunization schedule for children aged 11 to 12. Initially, the vaccine targeted primarily younger individuals, as exposure to the virus typically occurs after becoming sexually active, leading to the assumption that vaccination might not be as effective. However, since multiple strains of the virus can lead to cancer, and the most recent vaccine offers protection against nine of these strains, even prior exposure to one or two types doesn’t negate the benefits of safeguarding against the remaining variants.
