Katie Couric's Notebook: Saving Our Daughters

By: Katie Couric
Topics: Katie's Notebook

Video:
Notebook: HPV Vaccine

Hi, everyone,

What would you be willing to do to save your daughter's life?

Many parents cheered this summer when the FDA approved a vaccine against human papillomavirus, HPV, for girls. It was a big step in the war on cervical cancer.

HPV, a sexually transmitted infection, causes about 70 percent of all cases of cervical cancer, a disease that will kill about 3,700 women this year. Many don't even KNOW they have it.

But, some oppose proposals in 21 states to add the vaccine to the list of shots young girls must get to attend school. Why? One reason is it gives girls the wrong message -- that they're protected against ALL sexually transmitted diseases and therefore, it's ok to have sex.

As the mother of two girls, I understand these concerns. But if there's even a chance the vaccine could one day save their lives, I'm on board. And let's use this opportunity to talk to our girls about relationships and respecting their bodies.

That's a page from my Notebook.

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by z4721894 February 2, 2007 9:26 AM EST: I totally agree with Katies' observation regarding this vaccine.

Honestly, I can't think of Anyone.. parent or even a child, that can understand what this vaccine can do..that would question the use of this technology to save a life! First and foremost, Life Is Sacred.

Although that is my position, I would suggest that parents be given the Choice to accept/reject the vaccine.; Reply to this comment


by haley04062 February 1, 2007 11:33 PM EST: Katie,

I recently went to my doctor for a check up. They didn't mention the shot or anything. I am 13 and my mother is curious as to why they didn't ask. I want to do everything to stay healthy but I hate shots. What do your daughters think?; Reply to this comment


by ericmichael1 February 1, 2007 7:53 PM EST: Katie,

I have a 15-year old daughter, and I believe in Bible-based morality and ethics. Yet, if such an advance could save her life in the future, then why would we not allow it to be given it to our own daughter? Many situations occur that are out of morality's hands: date rape, a momentary lack of discretion, even marriage in a state that does not require a blood test...

I am at a loss as to how someone could reject such a medical advancement on the grounds that it COULD make their daughter commit immorality. Life is sacred in God's eyes, and certainly our own daughters' lives are sacred as well.

You are right on track, Katie.

Eric; Reply to this comment