AUSTIN (KXAN) — Researchers say most kids, especially boys, across the country aren't getting a vaccine that could protect them from getting cancer.
Since the HPV Vaccine was first recommended for girls in 2006, there has been a 56-percent drop in human papillomavirus infections in teen girls. The CDC is reminding parents the shot should also be given to boys.
HPV is the most commonly transmitted sexual infection in the U.S. The infection can lead to cervical cancer as well as head and neck cancers.
A Pediatrics survey finds many doctors aren't strongly recommending the HPV vaccine to preteens and their parents. Many doctors believe younger patients aren't sexually active and think parents would object to the treatment. However the vaccine actually works best if kids get it before they become sexually active.
According to the Pediatrics survey, roughly one-third of all young people have had sex by age 16. The CDC advises boys and girls get the three-dose HPV vaccine starting at age 11 or 12.
Pediatrician Dr. Jennifer Shu said, "It's possible to get infected with the HPV virus without having sex. I think that is one important consideration for parents."
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