The NHS is encouraging parents, carers and young people to learn about the life-saving HPV vaccine during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.
Life-saving: the HPV vaccine has been shown to be very effective at preventing cervical cancer
The vaccine, which was introduced in 2008, helps protect against HPV – human papillomavirus. As a result of people receiving the vaccine, there has been a drop in the numbers getting cervical cancer and other conditions linked to HPV.
Research suggests that the HPV vaccine will help to save thousands of lives. The HPV vaccine is now part of the NHS routine vaccination programme. It is first offered in schools to children aged 12 to 13 (school Year 8) with a catch-up vaccine offered to older years.
The latest figures for London show that more children in Year 8 are getting the HPV vaccination, with the number of boys vaccinated up by around 2% and the number of girls up by 2.6%. However, around 2-in-5 five children are still not vaccinated against HPV.
If missed in school, the vaccine is available for free on the NHS until age 25. Parents and young people can speak with their school nurse, school vaccination team or GP surgery about how to get the vaccine.
NHS London’s chief nurse Karen Bonner said: “Cervical cancer can often be prevented, and the HPV vaccine plays a key role in reducing the risk. Since the programme started in 2008, rates of cervical cancer have dropped significantly, saving many lives.
Ask for advice: NHS London chief nurse Karen Bonner
“The vaccine is safe and the best way to protect ourselves and our children from this virus. If you have any questions, please ask your local doctor or nurse for advice.”
HPV is a common virus that affects the skin. Most HPV infections do not cause any problems and are cleared by the body within two years. But some types can cause genital warts or cancer, including cervical cancer.
As well as getting vaccinated, it’s important for people with a cervix to attend regular cervical screening (smear tests) when invited. Screening can detect early changes and prevent cancer from developing.
To find out more about the HPV vaccine or cervical screening, visit the NHS website or speak to your GP.
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