Dr. Bob: My 12 year-old-twins have a check-up due soon. Since I have one boy and one girl, I know that there will be different issues for each child to address. But I have heard that they both should get the HPV shot. I worry about that shot. I have heard that there are numerous side effects. And it seems to imply that my children are sexually active. What is your advice?
Answer: Your question has several layers so let me tackle them one at a time.
- Well child care for teens is so important. They are starting to seek some independence and to learn about so many things. Your pediatrician will continue to build on the trusting relationship developed over the years to address significant issues for the years ahead. Your doctor will listen to your concerns but then will meet privately with each teen for additional history and the examination. This part will be confidential to ensure an honest and frank exchange. We want your children to feel that they can ask any question without fear of repercussions. I know that many parents fear this process, but it is critical to the care of teens. Pediatricians do not put thoughts in their heads, but rather let teens ask any questions that they are often afraid to ask their parents.
- The teen age years are a tumultuous time in the life of teens and parents. We only have to think back through our own teen years. We can remember good times and bad times. So many issues—sex, alcohol, drugs, driving—that have to be considered and discussed between parents and teens. Your pediatrician can help. (I will address social media and teens in a later column.)
- Mental health is receiving extra attention these days and rightfully so. Anxiety, depression and even suicide is on the rise. Turning a blind eye is not a good approach. Be observant and if you have concerns, get involved and ask questions. Again, your pediatrician is there to help.
- Depending on the current medical history, there might be a variety of shots that are needed. An enhanced meningitis vaccine is now available at specific ages and is important.
- Now to your concern about the HPV shot.
- The human papilloma virus (HPV) is now recognized to be causative agent for cervical, other cancers (mouth, throat and penis) and genital warts.
- It is estimated that 46,000 people a year develop cancer due to HPV. And cancers like cervical cancer are so silent that they can be deadly when finally recognized.
- The HPV shot is a cancer-preventing shot! The HPV shot is not a my-teenager-will-engage-in-sex shot if they receive it. Too many people think of it as a shot for children who engage in sex at an early age. Please do not fall into this trap.
- The HPV shot is most effective when given before the onset of sexual activity because more antibody to the virus is produced..
- It really is unbelievable to me that we have a cancer-preventing vaccine developed in my lifetime. It is safe and should be used by all. It is not associated with promiscuity as some would say. Everybody is at risk for exposure to this virus. It is exciting to me that we now have this tool available.
Good luck with your twins but don’t just leave it up to luck. Engage and get involved with their lives and seek assistance when needed. And get their shots!
Dr. Saul is Professor of Pediatrics (Emeritus) at Prisma Health and his website is www.mychildrenschildren.com. Contact Dr. Bob at askdrbobsaul@gmail.com with more questions.