The HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine is important for both women and men because HPV can cause serious health issues in all genders. Here’s why:

For Women:

• Prevents cervical cancer, which is almost always caused by HPV.
• Reduces the risk of vaginal, vulvar, and anal cancers linked to HPV.
• Protects against genital warts and HPV-related lesions.

For Men:

• Prevents penile, anal, and throat cancers caused by HPV.
• Reduces the risk of genital warts (caused by HPV strains 6 and 11).
• Helps prevent spreading HPV to partners, reducing overall infection rates.

Why Both Genders Need It?

• HPV spreads through sexual and skin-to-skin contact, so vaccinating everyone helps lower transmission rates.
• Some HPV-related cancers (like throat cancer) affect men and women equally.
• Getting vaccinated before exposure (ideally before becoming sexually active) provides the best protection.

When to Get It?

• Recommended for everyone (girls and boys) at 9–12 years old for best immunity.
• Can still be given up to age 26 (and sometimes beyond, based on risk factors).