Includes bibliographical references (pages 195-218) and index.

The Human Papilloma Virus, so-called HPV, is one of the most widespread sexually transmitted diseases. It is estimated that at least 50 percent of all sexually active people will be infected during their lifetimes. And while it may cause no symptoms in most cases, two strains of HPV cause some 70 percent of all cervical cancer. So it was with great fanfare that an HPV vaccine was announced in 2006--but controversy surrounds the vaccine, which is being recommended for girls as young as 9 and may be mandated by state governments. This book explains both the disease and the vaccine in lay terms. A longtime gynecologist and family physician, Krishnan also addresses the controversy, the pros and cons of anyone being inoculated, the need for booster shots, what is known about side effects, and whether or not it can protect boys from contracting or transmitting the virus, or getting genital warts.--From publisher description.

SACFinal081324