Gardasil 9 Vaccine for Blood Cancers
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests the Gardasil 9 vaccine to evaluate its effectiveness in preventing HPV infections in individuals with blood cancers who have undergone a stem cell transplant. The goal is to enhance the immune system's ability to combat HPV, potentially reducing the risk of further complications or cancer development. Participants should have received a stem cell transplant 6-12 months prior and be receiving routine post-transplant vaccines. This study may suit those who have not received any previous HPV vaccine doses. As a Phase 4 trial, the treatment is already FDA-approved and proven effective, aiming to understand how it benefits more patients.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What is the safety track record for the Gardasil 9 vaccine?
Research has shown that Gardasil 9 is generally safe and well-tolerated. This vaccine protects against nine types of HPV, which are linked to several cancers. Most side effects are mild, including pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site, while serious side effects remain rare. The FDA has already approved Gardasil 9 for preventing HPV-related cancers, and it boasts a strong safety record. Millions have received the vaccine, and its safety is closely monitored. This trial tests the vaccine in people with blood cancers, but its safety is well-documented from other uses.12345
Why are researchers enthusiastic about this study treatment?
Unlike standard treatments for blood cancers, which often involve chemotherapy and radiation, the Gardasil 9 vaccine takes a novel approach by using a nonavalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. This vaccine is unique because it targets HPV strains, which may play a role in some blood cancers, especially in patients post stem cell transplant. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it provides a new strategy to help prevent cancer recurrence by potentially boosting the immune response in these patients. Additionally, as a vaccine, it offers a non-invasive option compared to the traditional treatments, which can be harsh and have significant side effects.
What evidence suggests that the Gardasil 9 vaccine is effective for preventing HPV infection in patients with blood cancers?
Studies have shown that the Gardasil 9 vaccine effectively prevents HPV infections, with success rates between 83% and 96.1%. Research over 15 years confirms it provides safe and long-lasting protection against HPV. The vaccine reduces HPV infections, early signs of disease, and related cancers most effectively when administered at a younger age. Gardasil 9 is already approved and used to prevent HPV, which is linked to various cancers, including cervical cancer. In this trial, participants will receive the Gardasil 9 vaccine to explore its potential to protect patients with blood cancers undergoing stem cell transplants.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jessica P. Hwang
Principal Investigator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking adults with blood cancers, who are 6-12 months post donor stem cell transplant and will receive usual vaccinations. It's not for those who've had prior transplants, pregnant women, have very low blood counts, a history of HPV-related cancer or previous HPV vaccination.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Stem Cell Transplant
Patients undergo standard of care allogeneic stem cell transplant
Vaccination
Patients receive recombinant human papillomavirus nonavalent vaccine intramuscularly on day 0 and at 2 and 6 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Recombinant Human Papillomavirus Nonavalent Vaccine
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator