During European Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (24 – 30 January) girls and their parents are being reminded of the importance of having the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine. The vaccine protects girls against the two types of the HPV believed to cause more than 70 per cent of cervical cancers.
Most women are exposed to HPV infection at some point in their lives, but do not go on to get cervical cancer. They usually do not even know they have been infected because they have no symptoms.
However, for some women, the virus can lead to the development of cancer. In Wales, an average of 78 women die every year of cervical cancer, so having the vaccine could save your life.
The vaccination programme
A routine vaccination programme was rolled out in schools in September 2008 for all girls in school year 8, and catch up programmes for those born between 1991 and 1995 have run since.
The three doses of the vaccine given over a six month period have been well received and encouraging numbers of girls have had the injections, but those who have not had the vaccination yet are being urged to do so.
How the virus is transmitted
The virus is transmitted through sexual intercourse. However it is recommended that girls have the vaccine whether they are sexually active or not. As the vaccine does not protect against all HPV infections, it is important that everyone attends cervical cancer screening when they are called as well.
Dr Jane Wilkinson, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Wales, said:
“Take up of the HPV vaccination has been really encouraging but it is important to remember that to get maximum protection, girls must have the full course of three injections given over a six month period.
“The vaccine is most effective when given to girls between the age of 12 to 18, so it is just as important for girls that are not in full time education and those who have left school to have the vaccination as well. I encourage these girls, who have not received or have missed a dose, to contact their GP practice as soon as possible.
“This vaccination is the simplest and most effective way of protecting young women from strains of the HPV virus which cause more than 70 per cent of cervical cancer. This will reduce the risk of young women developing cervical cancer and save lives.
“I would urge parents to ensure their daughters have this vaccine when offered it at school or by their GP.”
“You never think it will happen to you”
Haf Mather, 30, is a careers assistant who has had cervical cancer. She said:
“You never think it will happen to you. When I was younger cervical cancer wasn’t on my radar at all.
“I understand that some girls may be scared of needles, but the HPV vaccine is only three injections. These can save your life. Throughout my treatment I’ve had to have regular blood tests – initially this was an injection every day.”
The vaccination campaign is being accompanied by information on washroom panels, as well as television and radio adverts.
