Cervarix Vs. Gardasil: Which is Most Effective at Preventing HPV?

Human Papillomavirus, or HPV, is a sexually transmitted infection that affects at least 50 percent of sexually active individuals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Although most people will get rid of the virus within two years, certain strains of HPV can lead to cervical cancer or genital warts.

Two vaccines, Cervarix and Gardasil, reduce the risk of the virus. Which is the most effective?

Which Offers the Most Protection Against HPV?

When choosing between the two vaccines, it's important to consider which offers the most protection from the Human Papillomavirus. The answer is Gardasil, which offers protection against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18. Gardasil is FDA-approved for both males and females between the ages of 9 and 26. Cervarix, on the other hand, only offers protection against types 16 and 18. Unlike Gardasil, Cervarix is only FDA-approved for females between the ages of 10 and 25.

HPV types 16 and 18 are thought to be responsible for 75 percent of cervical cancer cases, 70 percent of vaginal cancer cases, and 50 percent of vulvar cancer cases, while types six and 11 cause 90 percent of genital warts cases, according to the University of Southern California. This means that Cervarix only offers protection against cancer, while Gardasil protects the body from both cancer and genital warts.

Which is Most Effective at Preventing Cervical Cancer?

When trying to decide between Cervarix and Gardasil, it's also important to consider which vaccine offers the best protection from cervical cancer. Cervarix is the more effective option because it provides immunity against HPV for 6.4 years, while Gardasil is only effective for five years, according to USC. Cervarix is generally considered the best option for cervical cancer prevention because it provides immunity for the longest amount of time.

So, which vaccine is the better option? Cervarix provides the most effective protection against cervical cancer and other cancers caused by HPV, while Gardasil also reduces the risk of genital warts. Although genital warts can be a nuisance and may need to be removed by your doctor, cancers caused by HPV can be fatal. On the other hand, women who do contract a strain of the virus that causes cervical cancer often find out during the precancerous stage, when the condition is still treatable. To determine whether Cervarix or Gardasil is right for you, it's important to talk to your doctor.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. Anyone who is concerned with their health should speak to a licensed health care professional.

Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Cervarix
Gardasil
University of Southern California