HPV Research
Because Gardasil® has only been tested in girls and young women between the ages of 9 and 26, it has not yet been approved by the FDA for use in other populations. Researchers are studying whether the vaccine is safe for men, since it may help prevent HPV infections that cause genital warts, penile cancer, and anal cancer. Protecting men through vaccination may also reduce the overall HPV infection rate by decreasing the risk for transmission between sexual partners.
Researchers also are studying the effects of the vaccine on women who are over age 26 and on women who do not know they are pregnant. At this time, the vaccine should not be used in women who know they are pregnant.
Other research is being conducted to determine the length of time that the vaccine provides protection from HPV infection. Studies have shown that the vaccine is effective for at least 5 years, but it is currently unknown whether booster shots are required for longer protection.
