Scottsdale, AZ (Sept. 12, 2006) – Approximately 20 million people are currently infected with HPV otherwise known as the human papillomavirus. At least 50 percent of sexually active men and women acquire genital HPV infection at some point in their lives. By age 50, at least 80 percent of women will have acquired genital HPV infection. Approximately 6.2 million Americans get a new genital HPV infection each year and most HPV infections have no signs or symptoms; therefore, most infected persons are unaware they are infected, yet they can transmit the virus to a sex partner.

The first vaccine specifically designed to prevent cancer, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for females ages 9 to 26. The vaccine comes as a $360 series of three shots and in tests has been highly effective against HPV, a virus that causes both cervical cancer and genital warts.

The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2006 alone, over 9,700 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer and some 3,700 U.S. women will die from the disease. Proponents say the HPV vaccination could cut the number of cervical cancer deaths in the United States by 4,000 each year.

Jennifer Nevels, N.D., a physician at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center in Scottsdale, Ariz., specializes in women’s medicine. When discussing the HPV vaccine she states, “There are still pieces of missing information that we need. The trials on this vaccine look at only four strains of the virus. Two strains known to cause cervical cancer and two strains that causes genital warts.  Although these may be the most common strains, there are multiple strains to be concerned with.  When women get the vaccine it doesn’t necessarily prevent the progression of other strains.  Women still need to have annual exams to determine health and not think they are in the “free zone” sexually speaking.”  Dr. Nevels goes on to say, “We don’t know how long the vaccine will last. Even though it is now being suggested the HPV vaccine be given to girls 9-11, before sexual activity, it is unknown how long it will be protective.  Will they need another vaccine in a matter of years?  Further, the cost is an issue. At $120 per vaccine which is needed three times in six-months, that adds up to a hefty $360 in just one semester of school.” 

Dr. Nevels acknowledges that HPV is the most common STD in the United States but she says, “Naturopathic medicine has many options both in the treatment of HPV and even more importantly in the prevention of HPV.” 

As far as prevention goes, a very high percentage of women are exposed to the HPV virus but why don’t all those women get abnormal pap smears?  Dr. Nevels states that, “Pap smears do not always show to be abnormal due to the person’s diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors which are very important to consider.  A diet consisting of vital nutrients keeps the body strong and disease resistant.  Stress can be a trigger that will decrease the immune system.  With a weakened immune system the HPV virus has a greater ability to change the cervix.  Smoking is also a significant factor.”

Naturopathic Medicine has innovative treatment options for women with HPV.  Depending on severity & lifestyle of the patient, Dr. Nevels has an effective treatment protocol that involves applications of botanicals and zinc chloride to the cervix which helps to destroy abnormal cells along with vitamin therapy, and vitamin rich suppositories.   Clinically, she has seen regression and reversal of abnormalities. 

About Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine

Located in Tempe, Ariz., and founded in 1993, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine and Health Sciences is an accredited higher learning institution. It offers a four-year medical program that trains students to become primary care physicians. Naturopathic medicine emphasizes the body’s innate ability to self-heal. It draws on a rich history of natural, nontoxic therapies in combination with current medical advances. The scope of practice includes all aspects of family and primary care using integrative modalities such as acupuncture, homeopathy, clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, manipulation, and pharmacology. For more information, visit www.scnm.edu.