There are approximately 20 million people in the United States currently infected with Human Papillomavirus (HPV).  An estimated 70-80% of all sexually active individuals will have this virus at some time in their lives.  HPV precedes virtually all cases of cervical cancers.  HPV incurs the highest direct medical costs of all sexually transmitted diseases other than HIV.  Given these statistics, educational requests on the topic of sexually transmitted disease, and the introduction of a new method of prevention, it is important for healthcare professionals to understand the relationship between HPV and cervical cancer, as well as strategies for prevention.  Scientific discussion will include the epidemiology and natural history of HPV, the health and economic impacts of the virus, and recent data on prophylactic HPV vaccines.  The potential of HPV vaccines to significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer and clinical/community attitudes surrounding these vaccines will be explored.

This activity is intended for obstetricians, gynecologists, pediatricians and other health-care professionals who wish to learn more about preventing cervical cancer in addition to other HPV-related diseases.

At the conclusion of this activity, the participant should be able to:

•  State the natural history, epidemiology and public health burden of HPV infection and HPV-induced disease.
• Explain the scientific, social and counseling issues related to HPV vaccination
• Discuss how best to facilitate patient care and education about HPV.

Stanley L. Block, M.D., FAAP
Professor of Clinical Pediatrics
University of Kentucky College of Medicine
Lexington, Kentucky
University of Louisville, School of Medicine
Louisville, Kentucky

S. Paige Hertweck, M.D.
Associate Professor of OB/GYN
University of Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky
 

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.