The HPV Vaccine Controversy | Shobha S Krishnan, MD
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Reviews: (Excerpts)
Shobha Krishnan's The HPV Vaccine Controversy is a welcome and
much-needed book authored at a critical time….Krishnan's
book does a masterful job of organizing the complex and expansive
HPV literature into well-organized chapters discussing different
aspects of the HPV field…. The HPV Vaccine Controversy is a
superb book for any person who wants to be introduced to this
fascinating field as well as for the more experienced
clinician or health educator who wants to get a fresh and
renewed perspective. This book is a much-needed reference
source for parents who want more written information and
explanations before making the decision as to whether to give
the vaccine to their children as well as for concerned
patients who have pressing questions and want full and
detailed answers. This book is a terrific contribution, and
individuals involved in the HPV field should be grateful for
its publication.
The Journal of the American Medical Association
JAMA,
June, 2009; 301 (23):2504-2505.
One of the great strengths of the book is the author’s use of pedagogical
techniques, such as “Myths and Facts” and “Key Facts” sections in
each chapter…..The subtitle includes A Guide for Parents, Women,
Men, and Teenagers. However, this book is also an excellent
resource for health professionals; it is a fact-based and balanced
approach to the HPV vaccine controversy and achieves her aim of
having “the reader become well-informed and educated with the
disease manifestations of HPV and the roles of the new vaccines.”
Canadian Medical Association Journal, Oct 26th
2009
Planned Parenthood Review:
Shobha
Krishnan…brings a fact-based, learned and level-headed approach to the
many complexities surrounding HPV…Krishnan has the gift of making
science accessible without dumbing it down, and of delivering factual
medical information with a dose of compassion and humanity. (She takes
time, for example, to devote an entire chapter to the psychological
impact of an HPV diagnosis.) Most important and no doubt of most
interest to readers, Krishnan carefully and diplomatically parses the
current debate around the vaccine, addressing questions about whether or
not it should be mandated and tackling the fears that it will “promote
promiscuity.” This myth-busting, common-sense guide is suitable for
everyone – from parents to young adults and even health-care providers.
Planned
Parenthood review:
http://www.plannedparenthood.org/mn-nd-sd/book-reviews-35729.htm
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY BOOK REVIEW:
NOVEMBER 2010
One may ask why there is a controversy about a vaccine that
has the potential to reduce the incidence of the second most common
cause of cancer death in women worldwide (cervical cancer). Dr Krishnan
addresses this question from the standpoint of the knowledge of the
safety and efficacy of this vaccine and
the public's acceptance of the vaccine in 2008, 2 years after its approval by the US Food and
Drug Administration (FDA)…Dr Krishnan does an outstanding job of
explaining the HPV vaccine. Furthermore, she provides a superb discussion on counseling
patients with HPV infections…This
discussion can be a useful guide for the clinician who deals with
patients with any STD…In summary, The HPV Vaccine Controversy is a useful
guide for the clinician and for the lay public 4 years after FDA
approval of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine …
http://www.eblue.org/article/S0190-9622(10)00506-2/fulltext
Nursing Ethics:
…much of Krishnan’s success in spreading the word about HPV lies in her method of delivery. Rather than projecting her own personal views on the reader, she objectively and sensitively presents the facts and allows her readers to formulate their own stance. Readers come away from The HPV vaccine controversy feeling passionately about what they can do to combat HPV, empowered to make informed health care decisions, and better equipped to advocate for patients... Nursing Ethics, 17(3) 410–415, 2010
British Journal of
Cancer:
Dr Krishnan provides a well-balanced view of the strengths and
weaknesses of the currently available prophylactic HPV vaccines,
including the need to continue screening efforts, and to avoid feelings
of fear and guilt on the part of a woman when a HPV infection is
detected during cervical cancer screening…British
Journal of Cancer (2010) 102, 1312–1312.
THE NATIONAL MEDICAL JOURNAL OF INDIA
This book by Shobha Krishnan comes at a time when everyone, medical
professionals and laymen alike, need to be educated on all aspects of
HPV infection so that they have a better understanding of the disease
process….The book begins with the Controversy surrounding the HPV vaccine and the author
discusses the various hurdles this medical breakthrough has witnessed,
including resistance by the public on religious and moral grounds, and
obstacles in the way of its implementation. The chapter on FAQs on HPV
and the vaccines dwells on the lack of understanding of HPV and the
vaccine amongst college students and emphasizes the need to raise public
awareness. It also stresses that even if one gets vaccinated, it is
crucial to take precautions, such as practicing safe sex, making healthy
lifestyle choices and getting oneself screened. Finally, the chapter on
Vaccines on the global front discusses the burden of cervical cancer
worldwide. It argues that for the vaccine to be introduced in the
developing world, cooperation will be required between various
governmental and non-governmental agencies. The author states that
focusing on women alone does not fully address the issue of HPV-related
disease; men should be equal players in reducing the viral load in
society. The book makes for good reading, and is thoroughly researched,
handy and lucid in style. It will be useful to all those involved in the
field of HPV, including those who make healthcare policies, as well as
to parents, students and religious leaders. We congratulate Dr Krishnan
for this constructive and valuable contribution to the medical
literature.
THE
NATIONAL MEDICAL JOURNAL OF INDIA VOL. 22, NO. 5, 2009
American
Journal of Nursing
By Shobha S. Krishnan. Westport, CT, Praeger Publishers.
This
reasoned, in-depth discussion examines all sides of the human
papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine controversy. Readers get the information
they need to make an informed decision about vaccination. The book
contains comprehensive information about HPV and the vaccine, including
the risks and physical and emotional aspects, and a discussion from the
parents’ perspective. This timely book uses information to defuse a
volatile, emotional topic.
•Comprehensive, clear information
•Considers all aspects of the topic, adding a reasoned voice to the
debate
• Invaluable for parents trying to make sense of conflicting information
and reach an informed decision.
Although this book is billed for lay people I am sure adolescent health physicians and nurses will also find it very useful. It is an excellent, precise summary of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and its role in cancer formation in the genital tract…The author handles the advice on the role of sexual behaviour, infection and prevention in a very well balanced way…even the men are included…I thoroughly recommend this book to everyone interested in sexual health especially as it relates to HPV. All clinics that see young people should have a copy of this brilliant book…
Dr Sue Bagshaw, Immediate Past President,
International Association of Adolescent Health
http://www.iaah.org/books.html
Krishnan, Shobha S. The HPV vaccine controversy: sex, cancer, God,
and politics: a guide for parents, women, men, and teenagers.
Praeger, 2008. 230p bibl index afp; ISBN 9780313350115, $39.95.
Reviewed in 2009mar -
Krishnan (Columbia Univ./Barnard) offers a well-written,
easy-to-understand book that does a superb job of providing timely,
relevant information regarding human papilloma virus (HPV). Chapters
treat transmission, effects on the human body, prevention, and how the
virus causes cancer. The author, both a gynecologist and family practice
physician, does an outstanding job of explaining the controversy
surrounding the vaccine, and has brought to light a rarely discussed
issue: why males/boys are not mentioned in the vaccination plans, when
according to the data cited HPV causes almost as many cancers in men as
in women. The book also offers frank discussion of the HPV-related
disease risks of homosexual behavior....this volume will be a very
valuable acquisition for public, two-year community college, four-year
university/college, and consumer health libraries. Summing Up: Highly
recommended. Lower-level undergraduates and general readers. –
CHOICE- American Library Association
Journal of Lower Genital Tract Disease- A journal of the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology- 14(1):68-69, January 2010.
Recommended for academic/medical libraries and comprehensive collections
at public libraries....Gynecologist Krishnan (Barnard Coll. Heath 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.
Library Journal Xpress
Sept. 9, 2008
This
book offers a thorough discussion about a single topic - the Human
Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine. In the author's note, Dr. Krishnan
acknowledges the ethical dilemmas inherent in the recommendation for HPV
vaccine. She applies various ethical doctrines in a discussion specific
to the HPV vaccine controversy. Her stated goal in writing the book is
not to generate a recommendation, but to introduce all sides of the
story. Here, a teenage girl and her parent could find the answers to
nearly every conceivable concern they might have about the vaccine. For
providers of primary care who advise about and administer the HPV
vaccine, there is a wealth of information to share and discuss with
patients and their families. Patient education is essential in
addressing HPV and all other sexually transmitted infections (STI). Dr.
Krishnan's book provides for health care professionals an education in
depth and a caring, measured approach regarding the art of communication
about HPV vaccination, in particular, and about sexual activity in
teenagers, in general. Well written and extensively referenced, this
book would be a valuable addition to the library of any provider of
general pediatrics or adolescent medicine, or those working in the field
of public health.
International Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health: 2009; 21(4):00-00
Shobha Krishnan, MD, author of The HPV Vaccine Controversy, has a great
background for tackling a subject as complex as human papillomavirus
(HPV), The vaccine controversy portion of the title is well covered in
several chapters of the book; the author is empathetic to the parents and patients; dilemmas surrounding these difficult decisions, presents
adequate details on both sides of an issue,..Health educators purchasing
this book will probably dog-ear the chapter on Frequently Asked
Questions on HPV and the Vaccines; Many college health practitioners
will also find useful the patient questionnaire that gauges a person's
emotional impact after being diagnosed with HPV disease. It is a great
resource for college health professionals facing these types of
questions on a regular basis. The final chapter presents an outstanding
global view of the issues associated with diagnosing and preventing
cervical cancer in parts of the world with socioeconomic
inequalities. In summary, this is a great book for anyone dealing with
sexuality issues, as well as who wants to know more detailed information
about HPV and its vaccine.
Journal of American College Health
Vol 57, No. 5 / March - April 2009
The goal of this book is to better answer questions and concerns of
parents, providers, and patients (both young and the more mature)…
inform readers on the disease manifestations of HPV and the role of
vaccine therapy. The author also wishes to address issues that have been
raised in an attempt to empower women. The book is impressive in the
vast area covered, the questions answered, and the controversies raised.
The author provides an unbiased view and is honest about what we don't
know. The key facts at the end of each chapter help identify the
take-home points, and the glossary and figures help emphasize pertinent
information….
It attempts to provide a complete source of information without
directing patients and parents to multiple sources and sites. It covers
just about everything patients and parents want to know
Doody Reviews, July 3rd, 2009
A gynecologist, family physician and mother, Dr. Krishnan delves into
the pros, cons, misconceptions and legislative controversy surrounding
the HPV vaccine in her new book. This up-to-date guide provides a wealth
of information for readers who are unsure about the vaccine
2008 Women's Cancer
Handbook
This book is packed full of information. It should be a tool for parents
and for health classes in high school, as to teach all teenagers the
dangers of sexually transmitted diseases / infections and to also
encourage both parents and teenagers to be open and honest in regards to
their sexual activity. This book contains so much needed information,
from the cause to the treatment, and also the vaccine itself…This book
also delves into the vaccine aspects for both males and females. This
book contains much needed information and also gives references and
Internet resources. This book is easy for the layman to understand, and
also contains a glossary.
qualitybookreviews.wordpress,
Sept. 2008
If you care about your health, you must read this
book. The HPV Vaccine Controversy: Sex, Cancer, God, and Politics.
Shobha S. Krishnan, M.D. gives you practical, jargon-free information
about one of the most widely spread sexually transmitted diseases--Human
Papilloma Virus (HPV)….But
rather than frighten the reader with facts and statistics, Krishnan uses
a conversational tone that provides information to make decisions about
having an annual gynecological exam, gives parents assistance in
deciding whether or not to have their daughters immunized, and leaves
the reader feeling confidently informed of the nature of this virus and
how she can protect herself from its effects…. Men also need to read
this book…. this book includes information on topics including sex,
cancer, religious beliefs, politics, the emotional impact of the HPV
diagnosis….
storycirclebookreviews.
Dr. Krishnan provides the reader with a frank and honest presentation of
the facts about HPV, the consequences and the choices for preventative
health care. Good health care is about making informed decisions. Before
taking a side on the HPV Vaccine issue, get the facts; read The HPV
Vaccine Controversy. It is an excellent, informative resource for laymen
and health care professionals.
Public Healthcare Issues, Sept. 30, 2008.
Finally, there is a book that covers the often contentious debate
surrounding HPV vaccinations for teenagers in a thorough and objective
way. Leaving no stone unturned, The HPV Vaccine Controversy…makes a
compelling case for why preteens and teens should be vaccinated
...Krishnan writes in an understanding way that addresses the concerns
of reluctant parents and even politicians alike. Kudos for a job well
done
-Toni
Weschler, MPA, Author of Taking Charge of your Fertility and Cycle
Savvy: The Smart Teen's Guide to the Mysteries of Her Body
A
very thorough, insightful and informative book on the subject of HPV and
cancer, while taking into account the questions and fears of parents …
Charts are used to further breakdown the subject into bite-sized bits
that don't overwhelm. There is a question and answer section taken from
a clinic she held for college students….To date, THE HPV VACCINE
CONTROVERSY is the most comprehensive guide that I have seen on the
subject. Krishnan addresses all the controversies, making this book one
of those valuable tools that could help in understanding the
overwhelming tug-of-war concerning the vaccine. Krishnan's method of
filtering out the vast amount of information can help young women and
their parents learn about the HPV virus, and hopefully make informed
decisions.
Surewoman.com
S. Krishnan, author of The HPV Vaccine Controversy: Sex, Cancer, God,
and Politics speaks to the subject of this exciting and groundbreaking
work ...She took it upon herself to compile an accurate and intensive
report of all the research we have so far. She includes tables on the
current legislation in each state, information on the progression of
vaccines in other countries, and extensive FAQs. It is currently the
only book available on the subject, but Dr. Krishnan pulls more than
enough weight for an entire library. Her expertise is invaluable on the
weighty subject of HPV vaccines, and she holds nothing back in her work.
alphawomen.com
Dr. Shobha S. Krishnan's speaks to us more than as a gynecologist and
family physician; she is the mother of a young daughter. She wants to
educate and inform us and hopefully prepare us for the next round of
discussion when we are faced with vaccines for other sexually
transmitted diseases. Will The HPV Vaccine Controversy give you enough
information to make an informed decision? That is entirely up to you and
would say this is one book that shouldn't be passed up. I would say read
it and learn all you can to make a better informed decision one way or
the other on whether or not to vaccinate your daughter for HPV.
Bellaonline.com
Excerpt-A comprehensive new book, The HPV Vaccine Controversy, by Shobha
S. Krishnan, M.D., provides a well-documented, readable guidebook to HPV
that covers everything from sex to science to politics and religion. One
particularly compelling section details the author's own deliberations
as mother to a young daughter, reviewing factors that any parent should
consider before vaccinating a daughter-By Edward C. Geehr, M.D.,
LifeScript Chief Medical Officer
lifescripts.com
Excellent reading with much needed information for parents to navigate
and make up their own minds. The book covers crucial areas that
typically confuse parents- it was quite clear to me that the vaccine
would do more good than bad after reading the book. The author maintains
an objective stance throughout the book while dissecting the issues very
well.
CHowell basilandspice.com
An interesting book that I specifically read to help me decide whether
or not this vaccine is something that I should consider for my 12 year
old daughter. After reading the various pro's and con's, which is
portrayed in this well written book, I now feel like I have enough of an
understanding to be able to talk with my daughter's primary care
physician and not get lost in the doctor-speak that I might not have
understood prior to reading Dr. Shobha's book. I seriously recommend
this book for all parents considering whether or not your child may
benefit from this relatively 'new' immunization. ~ VW
http://darke-phoenixe.livejournal.com/2009/01/03
Book Review: Krishnan, Shobha S. The HPV Vaccine Controversy: Sex,
Cancer, God, and Politics: A Guide for Parents, Women, Men, and
Teenagers. Westport, 2008. Greenwood eBooks.
In The HPV Vaccine Controversy, Shobha Krishnan covers quite a bit of
ground. At the very beginning, she reminds the reader that this book is
a reference guide for Parents, Doctors and Teenagers… is
well-researched, well-presented and well-covered. The book covers three
main areas: What HPV is, who it's for and what should be done about
it…The book is a good resource and recommended for those parents and
caregivers of young girls (and boys) who are concerned about HPV.
Brick O Neal encouraginghealth.com
I HIGHLY suggest reading this book if you have daughters in your
household. And I STRONGLY suggest reading it if you have sons. The
book focuses not only on the vaccine itself but also spends a great
deal of time discussing what HPV is, it's many manifestations, and
how it affects both women AND men.
Nine out of ten people will want to pick up a book that has the words
'Sex', 'Cancer', 'God', 'Politics' and 'Controversy' on its front
wrapper. But these aren't terms of enticement for this 230-page
hardcover. Dr. Shobha S.Krishnan's book is about the Human
Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and the questions surrounding it. To every
Indian engaging in sex (hey, we're a nation of one billion!) the book is
necessary education…. Dr. Shobha's book brings us those "simple,
essential things" that we don't know and will never ask — prevention,
symptoms and treatment. …In a rapidly changing society with nil public
debate on new vaccines, an independent, up-to-date, non-pharma
evaluation of a vaccine is a fortunate happening. If parents and
paediatricians make a medical choice, shouldn't they be sure it is an
informed one? Dr. Shobha's reader-friendly book, with its wide index,
could be the first important step towards it.
The Hindu -India
http://www.thehindu.com/mp/2009/01/22/stories/2009012250850300.htm
Upcoming reviews:
Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
International Journal of STD and AIDS
Journal of The American Academy of
Dermatology
American Journal of Sexuality Education
International Journal of Nursing Ethics
Indian Journal of Medical Ethics