The HPV Vaccine and Cancer Protection

This summer term year 8 children will be offered the HPV vaccination. This article explains why the vaccine is important and who is eligible.

The HPV vaccine helps protect against human papillomavirus (HPV). It's recommended for children aged 12 to 13 years old and people who are at higher risk from HPV.

What the HPV vaccine is for

The HPV vaccine reduces your chances of getting human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that's spread through skin contact (usually when having sex).

Most types of HPV are harmless. But some types are linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including:

Cervical cancer
Mouth cancer
Anal cancer
Penile cancer
Vulval cancer
Vaginal cancer

What impact has HPV immunisation had in the UK?

One study found 90% reduction in cervical cancer cases for women who were vaccinated.
Another found that published in 2024, found that no cervical cancer cases had been detected in women vaccinated at the recommended time point against HPV since the schools’ immunisation programme began.
It is estimated that this programme prevented approximately 450 cervical cancers and 17,200 cases of precancerous lesions.

Despite these promising results it is still important that women over the age of 25 who have had the vaccine undergo cervical screening

Who is eligible for the vaccine?

Children aged 12 to 13 (school year 8)
All girls under 25
Boys born after 1 September 2006
Men under 45 who have sex with men
Any transgender people who are felt to have the same risk as men who have sex with men
Sex workers
People with HIV

Where can I get the vaccine?

Children aged 12 to 13 (school year 8) – This group will usually be offered the vaccine at school.
Girls under 25 and boys born after 1 September 2006 who missed having the vaccine at school - If still in school check with vaccination team otherwise contact your GP
Men aged 45 and under who have sex with men, and other people at higher risk of HPV – Sexual health clinics