HPV vaccine offers nearly 90% reduction in getting cervical cancer, new study shows
Rates were lowered most in 12-13 year olds
New research has revealed that cervical cancer rates in women have been significantly reduced as a result of the HPV vaccine.
Published in The Lancet, the study showed that immunised girls aged 12-13 were 87% less likely to contract cervical cancer than those who had not received a dose.
The study is the first to prove the direct link between prevention of cervical cancer and the use of a vaccine.
Rates were also lowered for older teenagers, with a 62% reduction in 14-16 year olds and 34% in 16-18 year olds.
Programmes to give the HPV vaccine have been ongoing in England since 2008. Initially only for girls, boys have been able to receive their jab since 2019.
Since then, the World Health Organisation has brought in vaccination programmes in 100 countries across the world to eliminate cervical cancer.
Reaction to the rates
Speaking about the news, Samantha Dixon, Chief Executive of Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust, said:
“At a time of when the topic of vaccination is in the public eye, it is incredibly positive to see solid evidence of the success of the HPV vaccine in reducing cervical cancer diagnoses.
"Even more encouraging, during 2021-22, the school programme will start using Gardasil 9 which provides an even higher level of protection. We are truly on the path to making cervical cancer a thing of the past.
"We must not get complacent however and must work to ensure every child has the opportunity to access their vaccination, especially as COVID continues to affect programme delivery. No vaccine is 100% effective and cervical screening remains an important test.”