We talk about cancer every day—how to detect it early, how to treat it, how to live through it. But what if we could talk about ending it before it even begins? 

For a handful of cancers, this is a reality, and it starts with one vaccine: the HPV vaccine. 

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. Nearly everyone will be exposed at some point in their life, and while many infections clear on their own, some strains can lead to six types of cancer, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers. In the U.S. alone, HPV causes more than 36,000 cases of cancer each year. 

What many people still don’t know is that the HPV vaccine can prevent up to 90% of these cancers. That means fewer diagnoses, fewer surgeries and fewer lives forever altered. This is one of the rare times in medicine when prevention is so powerful that we can change the statistics entirely. 

So—why act now? 

• For children: The vaccine is most effective when given to girls and boys between ages 9–12, before exposure to HPV. 

• For teens & adults: If you or your child missed the recommended window, it’s not too late. The vaccine is approved up to age 45 in some cases. 

• For everyone: HPV doesn’t discriminate, and it affects people of all genders. Protecting yourself protects your partners and your community. 

Busting the Biggest Myth 

The HPV vaccine isn’t about promoting sexual activity. It’s about preventing cancer. It’s no different from wearing a seatbelt or putting on sunscreen in that you are preparing for the future before you’re in danger. 

This month and every month, you have the chance to cancel cancer. Schedule an appointment to receive the HPV vaccine for yourself, your children, or encourage a loved one to get it. One conversation, one appointment, and one decision could change everything. 

Cancer takes too much from too many, but in this case, we have the power to stop it before it starts.