Getting the HPV vaccine at 50 years old is a common question many older adults have. HPV stands for human papillomavirus, which is a very common sexually transmitted infection. There are over 100 strains of HPV, with some strains causing genital warts and others leading to cervical, anal, throat, tongue, and other cancers. While the HPV vaccine is routinely given to preteens and teens, adults in their 50s may still benefit from getting vaccinated.
Is the HPV vaccine recommended for people over 50?
The CDC currently recommends the HPV vaccine for all adults up to age 45, with an emphasis on vaccinating by age 26. People ages 27 to 45 should discuss the benefits of vaccination with their doctor. For those over age 45, the vaccine is not routinely recommended but can be considered on an individual basis after discussion with a medical provider.
Some key points about the HPV vaccine and people over 50 years old:
- The vaccine has been shown to provide protection in adults ages 27-45, suggesting it can still provide immunity to older individuals.
- Older adults may have missed getting vaccinated when they were younger.
- Even if exposed to HPV, the vaccine may protect against strains not previously contracted.
- Those with new sexual partners may benefit from vaccination.
Overall, the main consideration over age 45 is whether the individual is likely to benefit based on their risk factors and potential for new HPV exposure. A doctor can help make this assessment.
What are the benefits of getting vaccinated at 50?
There are several potential benefits to receiving the HPV vaccine at 50 years old:
- Protection from new HPV infections – While many adults have already been exposed to HPV, the vaccine can protect against strains not previously contracted. This can prevent future transmission and disease.
- Reduced cancer risk – The HPV vaccine targets strains most linked to cancers. It may reduce cancer risk even if HPV exposure has occurred.
- Genital wart prevention – The vaccine covers strains that cause 90% of genital warts allowing prevention in older individuals.
- Peace of mind – Knowing your cancer and HPV risk is reduced can provide comfort and peace of mind.
Talk with your doctor, but in general, the HPV vaccine can still benefit older adults. Even if previous exposure occurred, protection against new and different strains is advantageous.
What are the risks of getting the HPV vaccine at 50?
The HPV vaccine is very safe and effective. Side effects are typically minor, including:
- Soreness at injection site
- Low-grade fever
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
These resolve quickly without treatment. Severe allergic reaction is very rare but can occur after any vaccination.
Beyond temporary side effects, there are minimal risks to getting the HPV vaccine at 50 or older. Since it is not a live vaccine, there is no risk of contracting HPV or other infections from the vaccine itself.
The immunity gained from vaccination is also unlikely to have negative effects at any age. The HPV strains targeted by the vaccine are those linked to cancer, so preventing infection is beneficial.
Some debate the value of spending healthcare dollars on vaccinating older individuals. However, the cost of vaccination may be outweighed by the high costs of cancer treatment and lost productivity.
How effective is the HPV vaccine at 50+?
Clinical trial data on the HPV vaccine included individuals up to age 45. In these studies, the vaccine was highly effective at preventing persistent HPV infection and disease.
Immune response does decline with age, but studies found little difference in antibody levels generated after vaccination when comparing younger and older age groups. The vaccination produces robust immunity regardless of age.
Some key points on HPV vaccine efficacy over age 50:
- Limited data, but immune response expected to remain strong.
- Ongoing protection shown up to at least age 45.
- May prevent new infections from strains not already acquired.
- Likely greater than 90% effective against targeted cancer-causing strains.
Efficacy is hard to study over age 50 given how few older adults have received the vaccine. But based on available research, the vaccine appears highly effective at producing immunity and preventing cancer-causing HPV infection even into the 50s and beyond.
Who should get the HPV vaccine at 50?
The HPV vaccine may benefit certain 50-year-olds more than others. Those who should strongly consider vaccination include:
- Individuals with new sexual partners – Vaccination prior to potential HPV exposure is ideal.
- Men who have sex with men – Have higher HPV infection rates so vaccine offers advantage.
- Immunocompromised adults – Less able to clear HPV infections naturally.
- Unvaccinated individuals – Missed opportunity for vaccination when younger.
- Those with HPV risk factors – Multiple partners, other STIs, etc.
Adults less likely to benefit are those in monogamous relationships for many years with no other ongoing HPV risk factors. But discussing vaccination with a doctor is advised, since predicting future exposure is difficult.
How many doses are needed at 50+?
The HPV vaccine series consists of 2 or 3 doses given over 6 months depending on age at initial vaccination:
- Under age 15 – 2 doses
- Age 15 and older – 3 doses
This dosing schedule holds for those receiving the vaccine at age 50 or above. Since first vaccination occurs over age 15, three doses are required for full protection.
The second dose should be given 1-2 months after the first. The third dose follows at least 6 months later to maximize immune response. Completing all vaccine doses is necessary to receive the full benefits.
How much does HPV vaccination cost after 50?
The cost for the HPV vaccine depends on your insurance coverage, provider’s fees, and whether you get the vaccine at a pharmacy or doctor’s office. Some key points on cost:
- Private insurance often covers recommended vaccines like HPV.
- With insurance – $0-200+ per dose, so $0-600+ for full series.
- Without insurance – $150-350+ per dose, so $450-1050+ for all three.
Shop around between medical facilities and pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, etc. to get the best price. Also check if your insurance has preferred vaccination providers. Under the Affordable Care Act, insurance plans cover ACIP recommended immunizations like the HPV vaccine without charging a deductible or co-pay.
Conclusion
Getting vaccinated against HPV in your 50s can still provide protection against cancer-causing strains not already contracted. While not routinely recommended, vaccination may be advised for certain individuals after discussion with a medical provider. Cost and side effect risk are minimal, while the benefits of cancer prevention and reduced HPV transmission offer great value. Adults over 50 should consider their personal risk factors and talk with a doctor to decide if HPV vaccination is right for them.