1% Of Latinas Received Gardisil Vaccinations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have noted that 25% of U.S. teens have received Gardasil vaccinations against cervical cancer although only 1% of Latinas have gotten the vaccine. And this, according to immunologist W. Martin Kast of USC’s Keck School of Medicine, is bad because “they are the population that needs it the most.” Oh? He says the “frequency of infection is relatively high.” In Latinas? Or in general? Is it because of genetics? Or is it behavioral? W. Martin Kast, why you no explain things good!

Anyway, this all might not even mean shit because:

Some scientists argue that it is only modestly effective and that its safety has not been adequately proved. Conservative groups say that giving it to young girls implies approval of sexual activity. And consumer advocates bemoan its high price — $360 for a series of three shots.

On a personal note: Our gynecologist advised us against taking the vaccine when we asked about it during our last infinitely delightful pap smear. Which was good news to us, because we’re wary about taking new drugs.

So… consult your doctor before deciding that this 1% is good or troublesome.

25% of teen girls vaccinated for cervical cancer, U.S. says [LA Times]