Definition

A type of vaccine that helps protect the body against infection with viruses that can cause certain types of cancer later in life. Two types of cancer prevention vaccines are approved in the United States. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, Gardasil 9, prevents infection with certain types of HPV that can cause cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, penis, and oropharynx (throat). The hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine prevents infection that can cause serious liver disease, including liver cancer.