Hey there Guys,
Great news today that Gardasil, the HPV (human papilloma virus) vaccine, will now be available free to a generation of Australian boys.
As reported by the ABC:
In a world first, an anti-cancer vaccine usually given to high school girls will be extended to some Australian boys from next year.
Four out of five people are believed to have been exposed to HPV, which can cause genital warts and cervical cancer.
Gardasil, a vaccine developed in Queensland, has been given to young girls since 2007 and ever since, there have calls to broaden the scheme to include boys.
Federal Health Minister Tanya Plibersek says boys aged 12 and 13 will now be given three doses of the Gardasil vaccine under the National Immunisation Program.
While the mainstream press has jumped on the reduced rates of genital warts and cervical cancer, for young men who may be gay, there are additional future benefits.
Gardasil vaccination can help reduce rates of mouth, throat and anal cancers in gay men. While most effective if given before a person becomes sexually active there can be benefits to all men however the effect does diminish if you have been exposed to more and more strains of the HPV virus. Check out this post: Should You Consider The HPV Vaccine for further discussion about the benefits of Gardasil for gay men. If you are over 21 and wondering if you may benefit check out this post: HPV Vaccine Reduces Anal Risk Cancer Beyond 21.
I congratulate the Australian government for taking this positive step forward and hope that other countries will be following soon.
Yours in great health.
Dr George
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