Effectiveness of Gardasil 9 Vaccine in Males: Antibody Response at Age 27

Cervical cancer vaccine nine-valent (Gardasil 9)

Hello Dr.
Chang, may I ask if a 27-year-old male who has received all three doses of the 9-valent HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) will have an effective antibody response in 99.9% of cases? Thank you.

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/04/10

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the current statistical data primarily involves females.
The effective antibodies in males may be similar, but there could still be some discrepancies between effective antibodies and actual preventive effects.
However, the general preventive efficacy is quite good, and vaccination is highly recommended.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2018/04/10

More Info

The Gardasil 9 vaccine, which protects against various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), is designed to prevent cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. While the vaccine is primarily marketed for females, it is also recommended for males, particularly to prevent HPV-related conditions such as genital warts and certain types of cancers, including anal and oropharyngeal cancers.

Regarding your question about the effectiveness of the Gardasil 9 vaccine in males, particularly at the age of 27, it is important to note that clinical studies have shown that the vaccine elicits a robust immune response in both males and females. Most individuals who receive the full vaccination series (three doses) develop protective antibodies against the targeted HPV strains. The data indicates that the vast majority of vaccine recipients, regardless of gender, will generate an effective immune response, with estimates suggesting that around 99% of individuals will produce antibodies to the vaccine strains.

However, it is crucial to understand that while the vaccine is highly effective in generating an immune response, individual responses can vary. Some individuals may not produce detectable antibodies due to various factors, including underlying health conditions, age, or immune system status. This variability is not unique to the Gardasil 9 vaccine; it is a common phenomenon observed with many vaccines.
In the case of males aged 27, receiving the Gardasil 9 vaccine is still beneficial. The vaccine is approved for males up to the age of 45, and studies have shown that vaccination can still provide protective benefits even in older age groups. The immune response may not be as robust as in younger individuals, but it is still significant enough to warrant vaccination.

Furthermore, the timing of vaccination is also important. The vaccine is most effective when administered before the onset of sexual activity, as it is designed to prevent infections from HPV strains that the individual has not yet been exposed to. However, even if a male has already been exposed to some HPV strains, the Gardasil 9 vaccine can still protect against other strains, thereby reducing the overall risk of HPV-related diseases.

In summary, while the majority of males receiving the Gardasil 9 vaccine at age 27 will likely produce effective antibodies, there is a small percentage who may not. Nonetheless, the benefits of vaccination, including the prevention of HPV-related diseases, far outweigh the risks. It is advisable for individuals to discuss their vaccination status and any concerns with their healthcare provider, who can provide personalized recommendations based on their health history and risk factors. Vaccination remains a critical tool in public health efforts to reduce the incidence of HPV-related cancers and diseases.

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