In August of 2007 Tia was diagnosed with Stage IV advanced cervical cancer at the age of 27. For years Tia had been told she had Fibroid Tumors, but we know now this was not the case.

After more and more tests were run her diagnosis determined that the cancer had already metastasized to her left hip bone and lungs. Continue

What Is High-Risk HPV?
Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are a group of viruses that are now recognized as one of the major causes of cervical cancer. But there are over 100 different types of HPV, so scientists have separated HPV types into those that are more likely to develop into cancer and those that are less likely. The so-called "high risk" HPV types are more likely to lead to the development of cancer, while "low-risk" viruses rarely develop into cancer.

Cervical cancer affects nearly half a million women each year worldwide. Nearly a quarter of a million women die each year from the disease. Studies also suggest that HPVs may play a role in cancers of the anus, vulva, vagina, and some cancers of the oropharynx (the middle part of the throat that includes the soft palate, the base of the tongue, and the tonsils).

One Way to Prevent HPV
 GARDASIL is the only cervical cancer vaccine that helps protect against 4 types of human papillomavirus (HPV): 2 types that cause 70% of cervical cancer cases, and 2 more types that cause 90% of genital warts cases.

GARDASIL is for girls and young women ages 9 to 26. It may not fully protect everyone, and does not prevent all types of cervical cancer, so it’s important to continue routine cervical cancer screenings.

GARDASIL is given as 3 injections over 6 months. Only a doctor or health care professional can decide if GARDASIL is right for you or your daughter.