Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/ April 17, 2024
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine plays an important role in cervical cancer prevention; however, many people are unaware that it can prevent several other cancers, including oral cancers. April is Oral Health month, and in honour of this, Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) would like to highlight the importance of young females and males receiving the HPV vaccine to help prevent HPV-related oral cancers.
“This month we would like to remind parents of the importance of getting their children vaccinated against HPV for a variety of reasons,” says Kelly Palmateer, Oral Health Program Manager. “We have evidence that oral and throat cancers are increasing and we are learning more about the strong link between these cancers and HPV infections.”
Most young people are offered the HPV vaccine through school-based vaccines in Grade 7. However, the vaccines are publicly funded for all students until the end of Grade 12, so it is highly recommended that all young people are fully vaccinated before they finish high school. This provides the best possible protection as they enter adulthood.
“HPV vaccinations are about cancer prevention, and they’re a safe, free, and effective way to protect your children,” says Palmateer. “This Oral Health Month we are urging parents to educate themselves on the benefits of the HPV vaccine, many of which people may not already be aware of. Parents want to give their children the best start in life, and this vaccine gives them the chance to invest in their child’s future health.”
To find out more about the HPV vaccine or to book your child in for an HPV vaccine, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca/clinic/immunization-clinic.
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Media Contacts:
Maureen Hyland, Communications Specialist
hyland.maureen@hpeph.ca
Emily Tubbs, Communications Specialist
etubbs@hpeph.ca
About Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is a public health agency that serves the counties of Hastings and Prince Edward from four local offices. HPEPH is situated and provides services on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee people. We monitor the health of our local population, deliver programs and services within our communities, and help develop healthy public policies. We provide information and support in many areas to help improve the health and well-being of our residents. Together with our communities, we help people become as healthy as they can be. For more information, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
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