HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that affects both males and females and can be attributed to ~91% of cervical cancers and the same amount of anal cancers, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Adults continue to be at risk for new HPV infection as ~7 million new HPV infections occur in people ages 25 and older every year in the United States. When studied in women between the ages of 27 and 45, Gardasil was 88% effective in the prevention of HPV and HPV-related cancers and diseases. Effectiveness of Gardasil 9 in men in the same age range is inferred from the women’s data as well as efficacy data from trials in younger men.

For the newly expanded age group indication of 27-45 years old, Gardasil 9 is administered using a 3-dose schedule at 0, 2 months, and 6 months. Health plans are recognizing this change and providing coverage for the vaccine.