Less Genital Warts Associated With HPV Vaccine

Australian researchers saw a significant reduction in the number of new cases of genital warts in women under 28 who have received Gardasil, the vaccine that protects against HPV which is the leading cause of cervical cancer. The Australian government began providing free vaccinations with Gardasil in 2007 for girls and women ages 12 to 26. Before the beginning of the free vaccination program, new cases of genital warts rose about 2% each quarter. During 2008, new cases of genital warts declined 25% each quarter in women under 28. The rate of new cases of genital warts in women over 28 did not decline. Gardasil provides protection against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18. HPV types 6 and 11 are associated with genital warts, while types 16 and 18 are associated with cervical cancer.

Source: Health Day News. http://www.womenshealth.gov/news/english/631916.htm. Accessed 10/6/09