A study published 14th October 2012 which is the first to compare
vaccinated and unvaccinated girls, found that the human papillomavirus (HPV)
vaccine, which protects against 70% of cervical cancers, did not lead
to increased sexual activity outcomes such as sexually transmitted
infections, pregnancy or contraceptive counselling.
The results of this study, although unsurprising, are welcome news. The HPV vaccine
prevents infection from two of the 'highest risk' strains of HPV that
cause cervical cancer. With research showing that an 80 per cent uptake
of the HPV vaccine year on year could see a two thirds reduction in
cervical cancer incidence in women under 30 by 2025, the programme will
make a real difference if girls continue to take up the vaccine.
Since its introduction in the UK, the HPV vaccination programme has
seen uptake of the three dose course increase amongst 12-13 year old
females year on year to reach 84.2 per cent in the 2010/11 academic
year.
We hope the study alleviates concerns and acts as a reminder that the
vaccine’s primary objective is to prevent cervical cancer. We hope
this news encourages those that are yet to be vaccinated, and are still
eligible, to have the vaccine.
To read the full study follow the link: