HPV Vaccine: Why Both Girls and Boys Should Be Vaccinated Against Cancer

Across the globe, doctors and researchers are fighting an intense battle against an invisible enemy that claims the lives of hundreds of thousands of women every year. The enemy is human papillomavirus – or simply HPV. But here's the good news: we've got a weapon that works. The question is, are we using it effectively enough? Especially here in Australia, where we're usually pretty on the ball when it comes to vaccinations.

HPV Vaccine: More Than Just Cervical Cancer

When we talk about the HPV vaccine, most people immediately think of cervical cancer. And it's true – HPV is responsible for nearly all cases of cervical cancer. In fact, around 74,000 women in India die from this cancer each year, and globally the number is even higher. But HPV is a tricky customer that can do a whole lot more. The virus is also a leading cause of cancers of the mouth, throat, and genitals in both women and men. Yet, only a handful of countries, like Australia, have really gotten their act together when it comes to vaccinating boys.

Boys Should Be in on the Fight Too

Leading oncologists here have long been advocating for boys to be offered the HPV vaccination. Their argument is crystal clear: Boys carry and transmit the virus, and they also risk developing throat and mouth cancers themselves. In fact, recent research shows that HPV-related mouth cancer is on the rise in men in Western countries. So why have we, for years, only focused on girls? Attitudes are changing, and many experts point out that we need to keep up the momentum here at home. It's all about herd immunity – the more people vaccinated, the harder it is for the virus to spread.

What Does the World Health Organization Say?

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has repeatedly stressed that we have a historic opportunity to eliminate a type of cancer for the first time. The goal is for 90% of girls globally to be fully vaccinated against HPV by the time they turn 15. And more and more countries are now including boys in their national programs. It takes political will and a solid effort to educate the community that the vaccine is safe and it really works.

How Are We Tracking in Australia?

We've had our ups and downs with the HPV vaccine here in Australia. After a few years of scare stories and dipping vaccination rates, we're thankfully back on track. The HPV vaccination has been part of the school immunisation program for girls since 2007, and since 2013 for boys. But we can't rest on our laurels. While our coverage is world-leading, we need to maintain high rates. For every 12-year-old who misses out, we increase the risk of seeing more cases of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases in 20 to 30 years.

• Cervical cancer: Nearly 100% of cases are caused by HPV.
• Mouth and throat cancer: HPV is responsible for a growing proportion, especially in men.
• Genital cancers: Cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, and anus can be triggered by HPV.
• Genital warts: A benign but annoying consequence of HPV infection.

It's worth remembering that the vaccine works best if you get it before you become sexually active. That's why it's offered to kids in Year 7. But even if you're older, you can still benefit from vaccination – have a chat with your GP.

The Future is Bright if We Act Now

Imagine a world without cervical cancer. It's not a pipe dream – it's a realistic goal if we achieve high vaccination rates and ensure women still go for regular screening. While the vaccine covers the most dangerous HPV types, there's always a small residual risk. But with a united effort, we can save tens of thousands of lives every single year. Right here in Australia too. It just requires all of us – parents, doctors, politicians – to take responsibility and say yes to vaccines when they're offered. Because as we know, prevention is always better than cure.

So next time you hear about the HPV vaccine, remember it's not just about girls and cervical cancer. It's about protecting an entire generation – both girls and boys – from a range of serious cancers. We've got the tools, we've got the knowledge, and we've got the chance. Let's grab it with both hands.