Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that can cause cancer in both women and men. They would cause 34,800 cases of cancer each year between 2012 and 2016.

Vaccination could prevent 92% of cancers related to human papillomavirus (HPV), said Thursday the US health authorities, which makes it one of their priorities. These sexually transmitted viruses can cause cancer in women and men, the cervix, vagina, penis, anus or larynx.

Only 51% of preadolescents vaccinated in the United States

"A future without HPV-related cancers is within our reach, but it is necessary to act quickly to improve immunization rates," said Brett Giroir, Deputy Minister of Health, who wants to achieve 80% vaccination coverage in the United States. United States against human papillomaviruses.

Only 51% of teens are fully vaccinated against #HPV. HPV vaccination saves lives and is the best way to protect children from HPV cancers and associated diseases. https://t.co/AhCQfyIAuE

- ADM Brett P. Giroir (@HHS_ASH) August 22, 2019

According to a new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HPV has caused an average of 34,800 cancer cases each year between 2012 and 2016 in the country.

Health authorities recommend that all preadolescents be vaccinated against HPV before exposure, at the age of 11 or 12 years. But vaccination rates are progressing very slowly among American teenagers. Only 51% of them received all recommended doses, which is only 2% more than in 2017.