HPV Vaccine Helps Protect against Cervical Cancer

What does the new cervical cancer vaccine do and who should get it? How should you take calcium? Should it be spread out during the day?

If you are referring to the new Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine (Gardasil), it is used to prevent infection with HPV virus types 6, 11, 16, 18. The first two types are usually associated with genital warts and the second two types have been linked to cervical cancer. If a certain type of HPV virus infects a female and the virus does not clear up on its own, then abnormal cells may develop along the lining of the cervix, which could lead to pre-cancerous or even cancerous cells.

It has been estimated that HPV types 16 and 18 cause 70 percent of cervical cancer cases, and HPV Types 6 and 11 cause 90 percent of genital warts cases. Other HPV types can cause cervical cancer, but the ones mentioned above are the most common. Unfortunately, people may carry an HPV virus without experiencing any symptoms, and unknowingly infect others.

The Gardasil vaccine can be given to females, ages 9 through 26, to protect against an HPV infection. The vaccine is most effective when given before the patient comes into contact with any HPV virus. It is administered via injection to the patient three times over a period of six months.

Because Gardasil may not fully protect all girls and women and does not prevent all types of cervical cancer, it is important to continue regular cervical cancer screenings. It is vital to note, therefore, that the vaccine does not replace your yearly pap smear. And, you should always check with your doctor to determine if the vaccine is right for you.

The recommended dose of calcium for pre-menopausal women is 1,000 mg per day. The calcium should be taken in divided doses, 2-4 times per day. Post-menopausal women who do not take estrogen should take 1,500 mg per day.

Calcium citrate, which is easy to digest, is a commonly recommended calcium supplement; it is better when not taken with a meal. An over-the-counter alternative is calcium carbonate, which should be taken with a meal, preferably at breakfast. Side effects may include dyspepsia and constipation.

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