00:10Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that we can actually help prevent. One of our most
00:16powerful tools is the human papillomavirus vaccine or HPV vaccine. Tonight on House Call,
00:24let's talk about who should receive the HPV vaccine, when it's most effective and why it matters.
00:32So what is HPV? HPV is the most common sexually transmitted viral infection worldwide. While
00:41most infections clear upon their own, some high-risk types develop into cervical cancer,
00:46as well as cancers of the anus, mouth, throat, penis, vagina, and vulva.
00:54HPV vaccines work best before someone is exposed to the virus. It is routinely recommended for boys
01:01and girls aged 9 to 14 when the immune response is the strongest. Individuals ages 15 to 26 who
01:09were not vaccinated can still have benefit through a catch-up vaccination. In some situations,
01:16individuals aged 27 to 45 may benefit after having a discussion with their healthcare provider about
01:24their individual risk. So how many doses of the vaccine do you need? If you or your child were
01:31vaccinated before the age of 15, then two doses are usually enough. If you started vaccination above
01:38the age of 15 or there is immunocompromised, then a standard three doses is usually recommended.
01:46In Trinidad and Tobago, the HPV vaccine is available through the Ministry of Health's
01:52National Immunization Program. It is also available at some private healthcare providers. If you are unsure
01:59whether you or your child qualifies for the HPV vaccine, speak to your nearest health center or your
02:06healthcare provider. The Soroptimist International National Association of Trinidad and Tobago is working
02:14with partners to raise awareness and uptake of the HPV vaccines through the HPV Heroes Campaign.
02:22The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to help reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer.
02:29As well as other HPV-related cancers. But remember, vaccination is not a replacement for regular pap
02:37smears. Vaccination and cervical cancer screening work together to help reduce your risk of developing
02:45cervical cancer. Speak to your healthcare provider to determine if HPV vaccine is right for you or your
02:53child. It's Dr. Mariana Brown for TB6 Health.
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