PHW remind importance of HPV jab to help prevent cervical cancer
Public Health Wales is reminding people to get their cervical cancer screenings to catch symptoms early.
Last updated 20th Jan 2025
Public Health Wales is reminding people to get their cervical cancer screenings to catch symptoms early.
There are around one hundred and sixty cases of cervical cancer found every year in Wales.
The health body is also stressing the importance of receiving the HPV jab to help prevent the disease.
The HPV vaccine is given in Wales as a free, single dose to boys and girls aged 12/13 (year eight secondary school).
Public Health Wales say:
"Since the HPV vaccine was widely introduced in 2008, research shows that it has already reduced cervical cancer rates by almost 90 per cent in women in their 20s who were vaccinated at age 12/13.
"Estimates indicate that the HPV vaccination programme has prevented around 450 women developing cervical cancer and 17,200 cases of precancerous conditions over this 11-year period and it is expected that the HPV vaccine will continue to save hundreds of lives every year in the UK".
Lisa Hogan is the Deputy Lead Nurse Specialist for Cervical Screening in Wales.
She says:
"Evidence is suggesting people in the younger age groups are less likely to come for screening.
2The important thing to remember is that we're all trained health care professionals and we're here to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
"The patient is always in control so we're there to empower the patient."
Public Health Wales say:
"Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by high-risk types of HPV.
"The virus can cause cell changes over time, which can lead to cervical cancer if left untreated.
"Finding cell changes early can prevent cervical cancer from developing."
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common form of cancer among women worldwide and , each year, more than 50 women in Wales die from it.
Cervical Cancer Prevention Week takes place between the 20th to 26th of January and acts as a dedicated awareness campaign for educating people about cervical cancer, its prevention, and the importance of regular screenings.