The HPV Vaccine Controversy: Sex, Cancer, God, and Politics: A Guide for Parents, Women, Men, and Teenagers

Krishnan, Shobha S., M.D. The HPV Vaccine Controversy: Sex, Cancer, God, and Politics. Praeger. Oct. 2008. c.240p. index. HEALTH~Dense with scientific explanation, Krishnan's book seems an unlikely read for most parents and teenagers, even those interested in the topic. It is full of useful information, e.g., which states require insurance companies to pay for the vaccine, but lay readers would have to jump around to hit the high points. Recommended for academic/medical libraries and comprehensive collections at public libraries. Background: Gardasil and Cervarix (awaiting FDA approval) are both vaccines that prevent infection with certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause cervical, penile, and other cancers. Currently recommended by the Centers for Disease Control for use in girls and young women, they have been controversial because of the method of transmission. Some parents have balked at giving their 11 year olds a vaccine for a sexually transmitted disease. Gynecologist Krishnan (Barnard Coll. Health Svcs., Columbia Univ.) provides admirable and balanced coverage of the controversy and science involved. She discusses her own decision to have her daughter vaccinated and whether or not she believes it promotes promiscuity.--Elizabeth Williams, Washoe Cty. Lib. Syst., Reno, NV.