HPV: A Preventable Disease In Modern Day USA

Brianne Cousineau

Abstract:
Although we've had a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for upwards of almost 16 years now, we are still seeing many cases of HPV related diseases such as cervical cancer appear across the United States. Why is this? In my project 'HPV: A Preventable Disease In Modern Day USA', I address this dilemma and examine why people might not be vaccinated as well as whether vaccination correlates directly with increased cervical cancer numbers. In my project I created data tables that break down vaccination rates as well as cervical cancer rates for every state. From that data I found that there was an inverse relationship between the two factors and that vaccination did affect cervical cancer rates. After finding the inverse relationship, I examined potential variables to my research and determined things healthcare professionals can do to increase vaccination rates. Since Human Papillomavirus is a sexually transmitted disease that is easily spread without the knowledge of the carrier, it is important for us to find ways to mitigate potential exposure. That is where healthcare providers play a huge role by educating parents and teenagers about the risk for HPV and the importance of safe sex practices and receiving the vaccine.