Research: HPV Vaccine

The question of whether the HPV vaccine should be among the list of required vaccinations for school age girls first gained public attention in Texas in 2007, when Governor Rick Perry attempted to mandate the vaccination. Governor Perry’s failed attempt has become a political hot topic at the 2011 Republican presidential candidates' debates.

The rate of HPV infection has grown at an alarming rate over the past decade and continues to increase at a rapid rate. “According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HPV infects approximately 20 million people in the United States with 6.2 million new cases each year…There are more than 30 strains of HPV that affect at least half of sexually active people in their lifetime” (National Conference of State Legislatures). With HPV infection rates on the rise, it is essential to separate the science from the rhetoric and closely examine the potential health benefits and risks of mandating this vaccine.

“HPV Vaccine: State Legislation and Statutes.” National Conference of State Legislatures. 15 Nov 2011. Web. .