During one of my usual Facebook checks while waiting to pick up whoever from whichever activity, I came across a very scary post! In fact, a friend had linked to an article that said the lead vaccine developer for the human papillomavirus (HPV) came out saying that not only is the vaccine not necessary (so few cases result in cancer), but these types of vaccines have also taken the lives of 44 young girls. Naturally, Breezy Mama had to turn to an expert to get the facts! Dr. Stephen Frausto, a physician on the medical staff at Mountain Vista Medical Center and in practice with Arizona Associates for Women’s Health, answered our questions on whether the HPV vaccine — that has been heavily marketed to girls starting at age 9 — is even necessary.
I saw an article that said it’s very rare for a woman to get cervical cancer from HPV. And, yet, there have already been 44 deaths from the vaccine and the lead researcher for the vaccine has essentially come out against it. What are your thoughts on this?
Like any vaccine, unexpected complications can develop. This is true not only of the HPV vaccine specifically but all vaccines.
Do you still recommend it to patients?
It is still a recommended vaccine for young girls and boys. Like any vaccine, be knowledgeable about vaccine complications and discuss concerns with your childrens’ doctor.
What side affects should parents know about before having their daughter vaccinated?
Guillian-Barre has been reported as an adverse reaction to the vaccine but it is unknown if it was related to the HPV vaccine or other childhood vaccines.
Is it true that “70% of all H.P.V. infections resolve themselves without treatment in a year, and the number rises to well over 90% in two years”?
It is true that HPV related cervical cancer is rare in the US. It is true that many HPV related cervical dysplasia will resolve on its own.
To read the original article this piece refers to, click here.
ABOUT DR. FRAUSTO
Dr. Frausto is a board-certified and fellowship-trained obstetrician and gynecologist, providing a wide range of health care services for women of all ages. Dr. Frausto earned his medical degree from the University of Iowa College of Medicine in Iowa City, Iowa. He completed his OB/GYN residency at the White Memorial Center in Los Angeles, Calif. Dr. Frausto also served as a combat medical specialist in the U.S. Army.
Please check your data before you post. The lead researcher came out against offering the vaccine to younger girls, not against offering it altogether, and there are plenty of articles dissecting the VAERS data and conclude that the reported deaths are basically statistical noise.
I have been diagnosed with cervical cancer from HIV. I am only 36 with three children aged 13,2, and 1. I feel I would be endangering there lives if I didn’t give them the vaccine. We must protect our children and there lives.