Are you aware that cervical cancer is the second leading form of cancer among women worldwide? I know this came as a shock to me.
According to USA Today, 288,000 women die annually of this type of cancer worldwide. The rate is lower in the United States due to the advances in gynecological tests.
However, it is still out there. As many as 10,370 are diagnosed in the United States annually while approximately 4,000 die.
So, what is my point of giving this information? Well, it seems there is a new vaccine coming on the market as early as next year that prevents cervical cancer. Yes, this seems like a wonderful advancement in science, but it has sparked controversy.
First, this vaccine targets four types of HPV (papillomavirus). Two of these types cause 70 percent of cervical cancer while the other two cause genital warts. And of course, anything having to do with sex is going to cause controversy!
Although it is still in the works, doctors are expecting the vaccine to be given mainly to females around the age of 11 or 12. As conversations about the vaccine continue, there is growing concern that young females will get the wrong idea.
Some think that because this vaccine prevents genital warts, young girls will be encouraged to have sex.
OK, no offense to the older generation, but young girls do know about condoms so if they are going to have sex, they will with or without the shot.
If those opposed to this vaccine would realize that anything that prevents cancer is a good thing, the controversy would cease. I personally am not aware of anyone that has cervical cancer and I would like to keep it that way.
I definitely feel that preventative measures should be taken, and I will be up for the vaccine when it hits the market. There is no need to chance cervical cancer.
I truly hope that this vaccine informs people of risks of cervical cancer. Let’s stop looking at negativity and focus on the positive sides. Forget the STD part. A vaccine is not going to change a person’s mind about sex.

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