70% of 12 to 13 year old girls complete vaccination programme against HPV virus to protect against cervical cancer

70% of eligible 12 to 13-year-old girls were fully immunised against HPV – the virus that can lead to most cervical cancers - during 2008-09, a report from The NHS Information Centre shows today. Leading sexual health agency Marie Stopes International makes the following statement:

“We are pleased that such a high percentage of young women received the vaccination against the two strains of HPV (16 and 18) that cause cervical cancer in over 70% of women.

HPV is a common virus passed through genital sexual contact. In many people, HPV will cause no health problems and will go away by itself. However, HPV can infect a woman’s cervix and lead to cervical cancer after a number of years. Jade Goody’s case has shown that cervical cancer, whilst extremely rare among young women, does nevertheless represent a potential threat to their lives and wellbeing; the vaccination programme is therefore extremely valuable.

However, although the vaccine is a great leap forward in the prevention of cervical cancer it is important to remember that it is not a cure-all and will only protect against certain strains of the HPV. Because the HPV vaccine does not protect against ALL cervical cancers, it is vital to encourage girls to start thinking about their cervical health as early as possible. Early detection and treatment can prevent around 75% of cervical cancers developing in women, so it is important to develop a cervical screening culture among women of all ages.”

All quotes above are attributable to Emily James, Marie Stopes International Spokesperson.

The full NHS immunisation statistics can be found online at: www.ic.nhs.uk/pubs/immstats2008-2009

Categories: United Kingdom; Health screening; Young people

03/09/2009

70% of 12 to 13 year old girls complete vaccination programme against HPV virus to protect against cervical cancer

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