iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
In the United States, the vaccines that help prevent cancers linked to infection are the HPV vaccine and the hepatitis B vaccine. Ask your clinician to review your vaccination records, age, health history, and any needed testing so you can understand which steps apply to you or your child. The National Cancer Institute states that “HPV vaccination can prevent cancer” on its HPV and Cancer page, updated May 9, 2025.
Which vaccines help prevent cancer?
These vaccines prevent infections that can lead to some cancers; they do not prevent every cancer.
| Vaccine | Infection it prevents | Cancer prevention relevance |
|---|---|---|
| HPV vaccine | Certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) | HPV can cause cancers of the cervix, anus, oropharynx, penis, vagina, and vulva. The National Cancer Institute estimates that HPV vaccination can prevent up to 90% of cancers caused by HPV infection and genital warts. This is a population-level estimate, not a guarantee for an individual. |
| Hepatitis B vaccine | Hepatitis B virus (HBV) | Prevents HBV infection, which can lead to liver cancer. |
These are different conversations: HPV vaccination is routinely discussed in adolescence, while hepatitis B vaccination and testing are relevant across adult age groups. Recommendations and vaccine availability can differ outside the United States.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsWhat to ask about HPV vaccination
Whether you or your child is due
Ask: “Which of these vaccines am I or my child due for, based on our records and ages?” The CDC recommends routine HPV vaccination at ages 11 or 12; it can begin at age 9. Catch-up vaccination is recommended through age 26 for people who have not been adequately vaccinated. Some adults ages 27–45 may decide with a clinician through shared clinical decision-making.
#1 Best Overall
How many doses and when
Ask: “If HPV vaccine is indicated, how many doses are needed, and when should each dose be given?” The number depends on the age vaccination starts and certain health conditions. People who are immunocompromised, including those with HIV, need three doses under CDC schedule notes. Ask the clinician to check the current schedule against your records and health history.
Potential benefit for adults ages 27–45
If you are in this age group and have not completed HPV vaccination, ask: “What possible benefit might vaccination offer in my circumstances?” The decision is made with a clinician rather than as a routine catch-up recommendation for everyone in this age range.
Rank #2
Pregnancy, precautions, and side effects
Ask: “Should I postpone HPV vaccination because I am pregnant or might become pregnant?” CDC guidance says to delay HPV vaccination until after pregnancy; pregnancy testing is not needed before vaccination. You can also ask which common side effects or precautions matter given your medical history and allergies.
What HPV vaccination does—and does not—do
HPV vaccination prevents new infections; it does not treat an HPV infection already present and does not cover every cancer-causing HPV type. If you need cervical screening, ask: “If I am vaccinated against HPV, what cervical screening schedule still applies to me?” Vaccination does not replace screening.
What to ask about hepatitis B vaccination and testing
CDC recommends hepatitis B vaccination for adults ages 19–59, and for adults 60 or older who have risk factors. Adults 60 or older without known risk factors may also receive the vaccine.
- “Am I up to date on hepatitis B vaccination, based on my records?”
- “Have I already had the recommended one-time hepatitis B test for adults?”
- “Which hepatitis B vaccine schedule is appropriate for me, and when do I return for the next dose?”
Bring any available vaccination records and tell the clinician whether you have been tested before. The clinician can use that history to discuss the appropriate next step and schedule.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Prepare for the appointment
These details can help your clinician assess what applies to you or your child:
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →- Age and any documented vaccine doses or dates
- Conditions or treatments that affect the immune system
- Pregnancy or possible pregnancy
- Relevant exposure risks and health history, including allergies
- Prior hepatitis B testing
- Your insurer or clinic, if you want to ask about coverage and cost
You might also ask: “What will vaccination cost, and does my insurance or a public or manufacturer assistance program cover it?” The National Cancer Institute says most private insurance plans cover HPV vaccination and describes possible coverage through Medicaid, the Vaccines for Children program, and Merck patient assistance. Eligibility and program terms can change, so confirm them with your insurer, clinic, or the program.
Best Value
- New York Times Bestseller “This book may help those who are susceptible to illnesses that can be prevented.” ―His Holiness the Dalai Lama “Absolutely the best book I’ve read on nutrition and diet” –Dan Buettner, author of The Blue Zones Solution
For another way to open an HPV vaccine conversation, the National Cancer Institute’s HINTS survey asks: “Has a doctor or other health care professional ever talked with you about the HPV shot or vaccine?” It is a survey question, not a required script; use whichever wording feels natural.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
