We have all seen the recent information regarding an important aspect of women’s health come to the forefront of the news. Throughout time the incidence of cervical cancer has decreased. However, the number of women experiencing abnormal Pap smear tests is increasing. This rise indicates that an increasing number of women are at risk for cervical cancer. Development of cervical cell abnormalities has been linked to the presence of the Human Papillomavirus or HPV.
HPV has become the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. The number of people infected by this virus is in the millions and it is costing our healthcare system billions of dollars each year. In 2004 the CDC estimated that in 2005 over 10,000 women would be diagnosed with cervical cancer. Presently, several thousands of women each year continue to die from this disease.
Recently the FDA has approved a vaccine for HPV. This vaccine is recommended for females as young as 9 years old. This should be viewed as a break-though in the advancement of healthcare for women. Women must promote and support those things that will allow them to live healthy, strong and productive lives.
The ACOG Committee on Adolescent Health Care recommends the vaccination for females ages 9-26, with the initial vaccination targeted for 11-12 years of age.
A key component in health care is the relationship a woman has with her practitioner. This relationship needs to be one of good communication and trust. Talk with your healthcare provider regarding this newest development in women’s healthcare.
Counseling, diagnosis and treatment of the Human Papillomavirus services are available. Vaccines are given at initiation with follow-up at 2 and 6 months.
For more information or if you would like to discuss the HPV vaccine, call 661-222-7822 or visit Dr. Ahdoot’s office located at 23861 McBean Parkway, Suite C-6 in Valencia.