From the Guidelines
You can age out of eligibility for the HPV vaccine after age 26, but shared clinical decision-making is recommended for some adults aged 27-45 years who are not adequately vaccinated. The FDA-approved HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) is recommended for routine vaccination at age 11-12 years but can be given starting at age 9 1. Catch-up vaccination is recommended for all persons through age 26 who are not adequately vaccinated. For adults aged 27-45 years, the vaccine is not routinely recommended but may be given based on shared clinical decision-making between the patient and healthcare provider 1. After age 45, the HPV vaccine is not approved or recommended. This age-based recommendation exists because the vaccine is most effective when given before potential exposure to HPV through sexual activity. Additionally, immune response to the vaccine is stronger in younger individuals. The vaccine series consists of two doses for those who start before their 15th birthday (given 6-12 months apart) or three doses for those who start at age 15 or older (given at 0,1-2, and 6 months) 1. If you're approaching the upper age limit and are interested in the vaccine, it's best to discuss this with your healthcare provider soon.
Some key points to consider:
- The American Cancer Society (ACS) has adapted the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendation for routine age for HPV vaccination to emphasize that vaccination may be routinely offered between ages 9 and 12 years 1.
- The ACS endorses harmonization of catch-up vaccination for all individuals through age 26 years, while continuing to include a qualifying statement about the reduced effectiveness of vaccination at older ages 1.
- The ACS does not endorse the recommendation for shared clinical decision making regarding vaccination for adults aged 27 to 45 years 1.
Overall, the HPV vaccine is an important tool in preventing HPV-related cancers and diseases, and it's essential to follow the recommended vaccination schedule to maximize its effectiveness. It's also crucial to discuss any concerns or questions with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action. The vaccine's effectiveness in preventing HPV-related diseases is well-documented, and its safety profile is well-established 1. Therefore, it's essential to prioritize vaccination for those who are eligible and to encourage shared clinical decision-making for those who may still benefit from vaccination.
From the Research
Eligibility for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine
The eligibility for the HPV vaccine is based on age and other factors.
- The HPV vaccine is approved for children as young as age nine and recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices routinely for ages 11-12 2.
- Vaccination is recommended for all persons through age 26 years 3, 4.
- For those not vaccinated at 11-12 years, "catch-up" vaccination of females aged 13 to 26 years who have not been previously vaccinated or who have missed a vaccination is also recommended 5.
- Two HPV vaccine doses, given 6 to 12 months apart, are recommended if the series is started before age 15, and three doses, to be completed within 6 months, are recommended for those who started vaccination at age 15 or over 3, 4.
Loss of Eligibility
- There is no specific age at which one loses eligibility for the HPV vaccine, but the recommended age range for vaccination is up to 26 years 3, 4.
- Vaccination can still benefit females over the age of 26 years who have not been previously exposed to HPV 6,11,16, or 18 and those who may have new sexual partners in the future 5.