One in four teens carries STD

A recent study by the Center of Disease Control found that nearly 1 out of 4 teens carries an STD, the Human Papillomavirus being the most prevalent. Nearly 1,000 teenage girls were tested in the 2003-2004 government study. Of the girls tested, 18% were affected by HPV, which can cause cervical cancer.

The article, found on ABCnews.com, made my report on the Gardasil debate earlier this week even more relevant. The controversy, surrounding the vaccination protecting girls as young as 11 from a sexually transmitted disease, made a splash in the health community as the “one less” commercials flooded television.

While parents and some doctors continue to raise concerns about the vaccination being given to young females, news like that in the article mentioned above proves a need for the shot. As controversy continues, stats prove more females are being affected by HPV.

The vaccination, while recommended for females 11-12 and 14-24, can protect against cervical cancer until age 45.