The American Dermatological Association is co-sponsoring the American Cancer Society’s public policy of vaccination against Human Papillomavirus infections [HPV] beginning at age 11 or 12 for girls and boys.

HPV is associated with protean medical illnesses including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers, as well as warts, condylomata, and oropharyngeal papillomas.  While there are numerous serotypes of HPV, type 16 and 18 are responsible for the majority of malignancies. Vaccines are available to protect young women and men against the most pathogenic serotypes and are recommended as part of a routine vaccination schedule for children and young adults.  These vaccines markedly reduce the mortality associated with HPV infections.

The American Dermatological Association also recognizes the expanded age range, between 27 and 45, recently approved by the FDA for male and female HPV vaccination with human papillomavirus 9-valent vaccine. The Association emphasizes the importance of HPV vaccination at all appropriate ages as a means to reduce HPV-related diseases and recommends that patients consult their health care providers regarding HPV-related diseases.