The NHS is launching a major appeal to encourage hundreds of thousands of young adults across England to receive the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, a vital protection against cervical and other HPV-related cancers.
Individuals aged 16 to 25 who missed their vaccination during school will be contacted via letters, texts, emails, and notifications through the NHS App, urging them to take advantage of free catch-up vaccinations at their GP practice.
The national call comes as figures reveal stark regional disparities in vaccine uptake. Government data from 2023-2024 shows that London recorded the lowest vaccination rates for both male and female students in Year 10. The HPV vaccine is routinely offered to boys and girls aged 12 to 13 to protect against a virus responsible for nearly all cervical cancers, as well as cancers of the mouth, throat, anus, penis, and vagina.
Cervical Cancer Elimination Targeted by 2040
Over 418,000 children in England left school without receiving the HPV vaccine in the past three years, according to NHS England. Many more young adults are believed to be unvaccinated, making them vulnerable to the virus.
The renewed push is part of the NHS’s broader ambition to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040, a goal outlined in its recently released 10-Year Health Plan. The plan sets a 90% vaccine uptake target for girls, along with efforts to boost cervical screening among adult women.
“Too many lives are lost to cervical cancer,” said Dr Amanda Doyle, NHS England’s national director for primary care and community services. “We’re working hard across the country to vaccinate and screen as many people as possible to help eliminate this disease. Encouraging progress has been made, but there’s more to do.”
Improved Vaccine Offers Greater Long-Term Protection
Since 2021, a newer and more effective version of the HPV vaccine has been used in England. NHS England reports that this version could reduce cases of women’s cancers by 16% and HPV-related deaths by 9% compared to the previous vaccine.
Clinical studies conducted in England indicate the vaccine prevents up to 90% of cervical cancer cases, reinforcing its role as a critical tool in cancer prevention.
Call to Action for Parents and Young Adults
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has echoed the urgency of the campaign, citing a significant decline in vaccination rates since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr Sharif Ismail, a senior medical adviser at UKHSA, stated: “Uptake of the HPV vaccination in young people has fallen significantly since the pandemic, leaving thousands at greater risk. We urge all parents to return HPV consent forms promptly and encourage young adults up to 25 who missed their school dose to speak with their GP. It’s never too late to get protected.”
The vaccine is also available for adults up to the age of 45 in certain cases, such as those with weakened immune systems and men who have sex with men.
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