Readers’ Poll Results Page:

HPV Vaccine

In our last issue, we asked readers to share their thoughts on the HPV vaccine, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2006. The vaccine has the potential to prevent cervical cancer caused the sexually transmitted virus. Some states, cities and even school districts have moved to make the vaccine a requirement for girls, often around middle school age.

Supporters of the mandates say the potential life-saving benefits of the vaccine are too great to ignore. Some opponents argue the vaccine could encourage risky sexual behavior, while others stress that the vaccine's effectiveness is still unclear.

Here's what you had to say:

36 percent - Yes, the vaccine should be required for girls starting around middle school age.

31 percent - No, the vaccine is too new and its long-term effects unclear for it to be required.

15 percent - Yes, the vaccine should be required, but only for older teens and women.

8 percent - None of the choices fit and that the vaccine should be a choice for individual patients and their families.

6 percent - No, the vaccine could contribute to poor sexual choices and should not be required.

3 percent - I don’t know.