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HPV “Have the Conversation”
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease (STI). There are more than 40 HPV types that can attack the genital areas of men and women, typically skin and mucous membranes. HPV is silent, i.e. it cannot be seen, so that most people infected, do not even know they have it.
HPV types are categorized as “low risk (wart causing)” or “high risk (cancer causing)” based on whether they put a person at risk for cancer. The increasing prevalence of HPV infections and the significant risk of developing cervical cancer make the recent development of a vaccine extremely timely. Immunization is recommended by the CDC for 11 and 12 year old girls, as well as for girls and women ages 13 through 26 who have not yet been vaccinated.
Whether to vaccinate a young minor for a disease transmitted sexually may involve awkward, mature discussion, and brings into play serious moral, medical and ethical issues. Whatever one decides, it seems most appropriate to at the very least “Have the Conversation.” For a detailed, in-depth discussion of the medical implications, please refer to this site.
CALIFORNIA FAMILY HEALTH COUNCIL (CFHC) collaboration
We are pleased to announce our collaboration with the California Family Health Council (CFHC), a non-profit leader in the development of health education training and resources for both the community and for health care providers, nationwide. The CFHC mission is to ìpromote and advocate sexual health along the continuum of life, and to create and broaden access to health education, information and services.
The decisions with respect to sexual activity, health and prevention are not simple ñ the CFHC can help provide information and options that may help clarify much of the ìnoise.
The admin and staff of the CFHC are dedicated professionals who are 110% committed to their mission. To help in that mission, Infectious Awareables will contribute a portion of all sales of the HPV scarf towards their efforts.
Please visit www.cfhc.org for more information. The name of the design is discreetly displayed on the border of the scarf (inconspicuous when worn.)
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