Published on September 22, 2025
4 min read
Vaccines That Prevent Cancer: What You Should Know
Vaccines are widely known for preventing infectious diseases, but some vaccines also help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
These cancer-preventing vaccines work by targeting viruses that are linked to cancer development.
Getting vaccinated is a powerful way to protect long-term health, especially when administered at the right time.
Cancer-preventing vaccines are recommended for various age groups, depending on the virus they target and the person's risk level.
These vaccines not only help protect individuals but also contribute to public health by reducing the spread of cancer-causing viruses.
Understanding Cancer-Preventing Vaccines and Who Should Get Them
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HPV Vaccine (Human Papillomavirus)
- Prevents: Cervical, anal, throat, penile, and vulvar cancers.
- Who Should Get It: Recommended for preteens (ages 11–12), but can be given as early as age 9 and up to age 45.
- Brands: Gardasil 9 is the most commonly used HPV vaccine.
- Prevents: Cervical, anal, throat, penile, and vulvar cancers.
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Hepatitis B Vaccine
- Prevents: Liver cancer caused by chronic hepatitis B infection.
- Who Should Get It: Routinely given to infants and also recommended for unvaccinated adults at risk.
- Effectiveness: Highly effective in preventing HBV infection and its cancer risks.
- Prevents: Liver cancer caused by chronic hepatitis B infection.
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Hepatitis C Vaccine (In Development)
- Status: No vaccine is currently approved, but clinical trials are ongoing.
- Why It Matters: Chronic Hepatitis C is a major risk factor for liver cancer.
- Status: No vaccine is currently approved, but clinical trials are ongoing.