COLUMBIA (WACH) -- A vaccine against cervical cancer hasn't been all that popular for girls. It may be an even harder sell for boys now that it's been recommended for them too.
On Tuesday, a government advisory panel decided that the vaccine should also be given to boys, in part to help prevent the cancer-causing human papillomavirus through sex.
Public health officials have tried since 2006 to get parents to have their daughters vaccinated against HPV, which causes cervical cancer in women.
"We know that three fourths of cases of cervical cancer are directly linked back to two types of HPV, and these types are included in the vaccine," said Dr. Heather Brandt of the USC School of Public Health.
Experts say a key benefit of routinely vaccinating boys could be preventing the spread of the virus to others through sex -- making up somewhat for the disappointing vaccination rate in girls.
Dr. Brandt says only the District of Columbia and Virginia require HPV vaccinations. Reaction is mixed on whether it should be mandatory in South Carolina.
"I don't think it should be mandatory," said Christina Jones of Columbia. "Everyone has a right to choose whether they want something or not."
"If it can protect both men and women, it should be required for both men and women," adds USC Student Paige Kenmore.
President of the Palmetto Family Council Dr. Oran Smith says it will take time to determine if this vaccination works, but is not favor of mandatory vaccinations.
"Educate, don't mandate. We believe parents should be aware of it, that DHEC should put out information about it."
This story is generating some controversy, some parents distrust the safety of the vaccine.
Others don't want to think about their daughters having sex one day, or worry that the vaccine essentially promotes promiscuous behavior.
(The Associated Press Contributed to this report)
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