Young adults given power to eliminate cervical cancer

Young adults across the region have the power to eliminate cervical cancer by getting vaccinated against the human papillomavirus, otherwise known as HPV.

The vaccine, which is available to both males and females aged between 16 and 25, offers protection against HPV, which is the collective name for a wide range of contagious viruses that can be spread through sexual contact.

It is hoped that a sharp uptake in the number of people having the vaccine, which is already offered in schools as part of routine childhood immunisations, could pave the way for the elimination of cervical cancer by 2040.

Gill May, Chief Nurse Officer, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “It’s vital for our young people to know just how important this area of their health and wellbeing is, especially as they start to become sexually active, and that the HPV vaccine – like condoms and the pill – is another way of keeping themselves and their partners safe.”

Young people who have missed out on getting the HPV vaccine in school can receive a catch-up dose from their GP practice.

Students currently in further or higher education can find out more about the vaccine by speaking to their college or university’s health and wellbeing team.

Visit www.bswtogether.org.uk/yourhealth-hpv to find out more.