Imagine a World Without HPV-Related Cancer -The Importance of Early HPV Vaccination Between Ages 9-14
- Johanna
- Jul 8, 2025
- 4 min read
Imagine a future where certain HPV-related cancers become so rare that they almost disappear. That vision isn't just hopeful thinking; it’s achievable with the HPV vaccine. It’s one of the most effective ways to protect your child today for a healthier tomorrow.
What is HPV, and why does HPV Vaccination matter?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. It spreads through close skin-to-skin contact, not only during sexual intercourse but also through intimate touching or petting.
Most people will get infected with at least one type of HPV during their lifetime, often without ever realizing it. In many cases, the body clears the infection on its own; about 90 percent cause no issues. However, sometimes the virus stays in the body.
Certain high-risk types of HPV can lead to cancers of the cervix, penis, anus, mouth, or throat. Low-risk types can cause genital warts, which, while not life-threatening, can be uncomfortable and distressing.
Globally, HPV types 16 and 18 cause about 70 percent of all cervical cancers. Types 6 and 11 mainly lead to genital warts. The good news is that today’s approved vaccines, which are covered by German statutory health insurance and most private insurance plans, effectively protect against high-risk and low-risk types. However, it’s important to understand that not all HPV types are currently included in the available vaccines.
Proven Protection
Studies worldwide show that when children are vaccinated early, the risk of developing cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases drops significantly.
For example, a Swedish study found that girls vaccinated before age 17 had a much lower risk of invasive cervical cancer.
Countries like Australia are seeing dramatic results: A school-based vaccination program reached over 70 percent of 12- to 13-year-old children. The result? A 73 percent drop in new genital warts among vaccinated girls.
A Big Win for Future Health
If we vaccinate children early, we could reduce future cases of cervical and other HPV-related cancers by over 60 percent. International experts believe that in areas with consistent vaccination, cervical cancer could nearly disappear within a few decades. That’s a significant step forward for upcoming generations and their health.
Why Early Vaccination Is So Important
The HPV vaccine is most effective when administered before a person comes into contact with the virus. That’s why experts, including Germany’s Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO), recommend vaccinating all children, both girls and boys, ideally between the ages of 9 and 14.
Younger children’s immune systems respond particularly well to the vaccine, creating strong and long-lasting antibody protection. Once a child is infected, the vaccine cannot undo the infection. Therefore, the earlier the vaccination, the better the protection.
Boys Need Protection Too!
HPV not only affects girls. Boys can also develop HPV-related cancers, such as penile, anal, or cancers of the mouth and throat. Vaccinated boys also help reduce the spread of HPV in the population, protecting everyone.
What Can You Do as a Parent?
Consult your pediatrician to determine when your child should receive the HPV vaccine.
If your child hasn’t been vaccinated yet, get them caught up soon before they turn 18.
The earlier your child gets vaccinated, the better.
Share your knowledge with other parents. Every vaccinated child is another step toward a world with less cancer.
A Realistic Outlook
Countries like Australia show us what’s possible: a future with dramatically lower rates of cervical cancer and genital warts thanks to high vaccination coverage.
Yes, there are still challenges: vaccination rates are not equal everywhere. In some regions, access is limited, and myths or misinformation make parents hesitant to seek help.
The HPV vaccine is one of the safest and most thoroughly researched vaccines available worldwide. It’s a simple step that offers strong, long-lasting protection against some of the most dangerous types of HPV for girls and boys alike.
By choosing HPV vaccination, you’re giving your child the chance for a healthier future.
Stand 07/2025
See also HPV vaccination:
Resources
STIKO (Ständige Impfkommission)
Recommendations for HPV vaccination for girls and boys from age 9.Robert Koch Institute.
Robert Koch Institute – Immunisation Coverage Report 2024/2025
Current data on HPV vaccination coverage in Germany.
Gesundheitsamt Bremen
Model project: School vaccination program and evaluation.
World Health Organization (WHO)
Global Strategy to Eliminate Cervical Cancer.
Bhalerao V, Patel R, Johnson L, et al.
Global impact of HPV vaccination programs: successes and remaining challenges.Vaccine. 2024;42(2):123-130. DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.01.001
González-Rodríguez A, Martín-Sánchez V, Ruiz-García M.
Long-term effectiveness and safety of HPV vaccines: a systematic review.International Journal of Cancer. 2024;154(1):12-21. DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34720
Garland SM, Brotherton JML, Condon JR, et al.
Human papillomavirus prevalence among indigenous and non-indigenous Australian women: a national population-based study.Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2011;204(9):1375-1383. DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jir499
Taira AV, Neukermans CP, Sanders GD.
Evaluating human papillomavirus vaccination programs.Emerging Infectious Diseases. 2004;10(11):1915-1923. DOI: 10.3201/eid1011.040127
Lei J, Ploner A, Elfström KM, et al.
HPV vaccination and the risk of invasive cervical cancer.New England Journal of Medicine. 2020;383(14):1340-1348. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa1917338
Schlecht NF, Diaz A, Nucci-Sack A, et al.
Prevalence of human papillomavirus types in adolescent and young adult women following the introduction of the HPV vaccine.Papillomavirus Research. 2021;11:100202. DOI: 10.1016/j.pvr.2021.100202
