Figures out today show Scotland on target for massive drop in cancer rates
Figures out today show Scotland is on target for a massive reduction in cervical cancer rates, according to a leading charity.
Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust says take up of a life-saving vaccination has topped 86%, protecting almost nine in ten 12 and 13 year old girls across the country from the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which causes most cases of the disease.
Robert Music, Director of the Trust, said: “I congratulate the Scottish HPV Immunisation Programme for again achieving such a high take-up rate. Research has shown that an 80% take up of the vaccine could see a 2/3 reduction in cervical cancer in the under 30s by 2025.
“With 86.9% having already taken up this life-saving opportunity and even more girls in this group expected to complete the three-dose course by the spring, these figures could be even better in Scotland.”
The HPV Immunisation Programme in Scotland started on 1 September 2008 and aims to protect girls by routinely immunizing them at around 12-13 years of age with a catch-up campaign for girls aged 13-17. Recent studies show the immunisation could prevent up to 77% of cases.
Robert Music added: “Cervical cancer is a largely preventable disease, thanks to the HPV vaccination programme and cervical screening. This means huge numbers of young women in Scotland have taken significant steps towards reducing their risk.”
Last updated: 23/09/2010
