Why Your Boys Should Get the HPV Jab Too

Upon hearing of an HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination, you may think of one for your girls. Well, it's technically true that girls are the ones that get them when they're little. But many experts have said that boys should get this jab as well. Here's why. The Human Papillomavirus Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the name for a very common type of virus. There are more than 100 types, and they are usually harmless in one's body. In fact, it might be in your body now. It's not dangerous when it's a small amount, as the body's immune system can fend them off. But if there's too much, there are many dangerous consequences. In general, it can cause cancer in the mouth, throat, head or neck. In women, it usually causes vaginal, vulva and cervical cancer. In men, it can cause penis cancer. Why Girls Primarily Get the Jab All children are required to get some vaccines throughout their lives. They're to get them at a few months of age, when they're in kindergarten and when they're entering adolescence. But one jab boys have skipped is the HPV vaccine. Despite the same effects of infections when they're older, there's a big reason why only girls get them. And it's due to the fact that girls are more susceptible to these cancers when they have HPV. Cervical cancer is already very common even in Malaysia alone. Obstetrics-related cancers are already common as well, so it doesn't help with the risk of infection. But this isn't a sign that you don't have to give the jab to your boys. Why Boys Should Get Them Vaccines have a lot of benefits. Not only does it prevent you from getting sick, it also helps keep healthy. And with the help of vaccines, the population isn't drastically decreasing. The same goes for HPV vaccines. When one gets the jab, they're not susceptible to any related diseases. So, what about boys getting them? Well, we should look at the numbers first. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), out of 37,000 HPV-related cancers infected in the U.S., 42 percent of them are in males. These diagnoses could have been prevented if one acquires the vaccine. When to Get Them The vaccine is taken at an early age for girls, at the age of nine for the first dose. They will get the second dose after a 6–12-month period. Boys can get them when they turn 11 or 12 years old. This is because their immune system is strongest during this period. And their antibodies will be produced a lot to be able to protect against the virus. Prevention Is Better Than Cure Vaccines have always been a big part of our lives. And a small prick to the arm before entering adolescence won't hurt. So, consult your medical healthcare provider for a jab for your boys. Your child will thank you later in life. Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner. For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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