UK health officials launch nationwide campaign urging youth under 25 to get the HPV vaccine, aiming to eliminate cervical and HPV-related cancers by 2040
Nationwide Effort to Boost HPV Vaccination Among Youth
In a renewed public health push, UK officials are urging young people aged 16 to 25 to get vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV) after recent data revealed that over 418,000 children have left school in the past three years without receiving the potentially life-saving jab. The vaccine helps prevent cervical and other HPV-related cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, and genitals.
Why HPV Vaccination Is Critical
HPV is a common virus with certain high-risk strains causing 99.7% of cervical cancer cases. The vaccine is typically administered to boys and girls in Year 8, but recent disruptions in health services and declining school-based uptake have created significant gaps in coverage. Experts warn that unless action is taken, thousands may remain vulnerable to preventable cancers.
New Invitations Rolling Out Across England
NHS England will begin inviting unvaccinated 16 to 25-year-olds for the HPV vaccine through their GP practices. While many adolescents missed the jab during school years, the vaccine remains available for free up to age 25. The campaign is also supported by health charities like The Lady Garden Foundation, which is working to educate students at university Freshers’ Fairs and through schools’ PSHE resources.
Current Uptake and Targets
Vaccination rates have seen modest improvements. In 2023–24, 72.9% of Year 8 girls and 67.7% of boys received the vaccine—up from the previous year. However, NHS England is aiming for a 90% vaccination rate among girls to meet its goal of eliminating cervical cancer by 2040. Increasing attendance at cervical screening appointments is also part of the long-term strategy.
Charity and Clinical Support
Medical professionals and campaigners have welcomed the renewed focus. John Butler, Consultant Gynaecological Oncology Surgeon at The Royal Marsden, stressed, “It’s heartbreaking that so many young people are missing out on the protection the HPV vaccine offers. This new move could be lifesaving.” Jenny Halpern Prince MBE, CEO of The Lady Garden Foundation, echoed the urgency, noting that the vaccine protects against six different types of cancer and is available at GPs and, from 2026, pharmacies.
How to Get Vaccinated
The HPV vaccine is available for free through NHS GPs for anyone under 25. Health officials are encouraging young people to act proactively—they don’t need to wait for an invitation. With the potential to eliminate multiple forms of cancer, the campaign is calling on all eligible individuals to make the appointment that could save their life.
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