Each year, about 13,000 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed in the United States. This doesn’t have to happen. Cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable with HPV vaccination and screening according to Judi Van Hulzen, Marion County Public Health RN.

The American Cancer Society and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that kids get the HPV vaccine starting at age 9 through 12 years. Vaccination is also recommended for all people aged 13 through 26 years who have not been vaccinated previously or who have not completed the vaccination series. 

Judi Van Hulzen, tells KNIA/KRLS News the importance of the shot, “It’s almost entirely preventable with HPV vaccination and screening.”

Vaccinating children at 9-12 years of age can protect kids before they are exposed to the virus. The fact is that pre-teens produce more antibodies from two doses of the vaccine. Older teens or adults need three doses to get the protection needed.

Ashley Buckalew is the care for yourself coordinator for breast and cervical cancer prevention program at Marion County Public Health which offers breast and cervical screening exams for women 18 to 64.