State Rep. Edna Brown proposes immunizations against cervical cancer

Common sense that saves lives

State Rep. Edna Brown, D-Toledo, has introduced legislation that would require all Ohio girls preparing to enter the sixth grade to be vaccinated against the human papillomavirus (HPV), believed to be responsible for virtually all cervical cancer.

“For the first time, we have a vaccine for cancer,” Brown said. “I believe we have a responsibility to make sure girls are vaccinated against cervical cancer, just as we already make sure they are protected against the mumps and chicken pox.”

If passed quickly, Brown’s House Bill 703, introduced Tuesday, could make Ohio the second state in the nation to require schoolgirls ages 11 to12 to be vaccinated against HPV with Gardasil, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration last summer.

State senators in Michigan have passed legislation that would require the vaccinations; a vote of the Michigan House is expected this week. Meanwhile, California is deliberating vaccination legislation, New Hampshire is offering Gardasil free to girls 11 to 18 and the government of Australia has moved to include the drug in its national youth vaccination program.

Brown’s proposal follows the advice of experts at the Center for Disease Control’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which recommended vaccinations for girls 11-12, an age before most sexual activity occurs and when immunological response is shown to be greater. Her bill also includes a provision for parents to opt out for medical, religious or philosophical reasons.

Brown said she doubts her bill can be enacted during the waning days of the 126th General Assembly, which is expected to adjourn before Christmas. But she plans to continue the initiative on this important issue immediately in 2007.

Nationally, 10,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year and 3,700 women die annually from the disease, which is spread by sexual contact. The vaccine targets the HPV strains that cause the majority of these cases.

“This is a concrete step we can take to save lives,” Brown said. “Here in Ohio we should lead by example when it comes to preventative health care for women.”

The fundamentalists don't like it of course, which is why you should write your Rep and ask them to support this important piece of life saving legislation.