As reported by Harrow Online, UKHSA is calling on parents to sign consent forms and protect their children with the HPV vaccine, as London remains the region with the lowest uptake in England
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding parents in London of the crucial protection the HPV vaccine provides against cervical cancer and other cancers that can affect both boys and girls. Delivered through the NHS vaccination programme in schools, the vaccine has significantly reduced HPV infections and cervical cancer rates in eligible women, with the greatest impact seen in those vaccinated at younger ages.
Despite these benefits, more than a third of eligible pupils in London miss out on the vaccine each year. UKHSA is urging parents to sign consent forms to ensure their children receive this vital protection against genital warts and cancers of the genital area, anus, mouth, and throat.
The latest figures indicate that vaccine uptake is stabilizing, with an increase among Year 8 pupils. Data for the 2023–2024 academic year shows that uptake among Year 8 females has risen to 61.6%, marking a 4.2% increase from the previous year, while Year 8 males saw an increase to 57%, up by 3.5%. However, uptake has declined among older students, with Year 9 females dropping to 60.9%, a 5.2% decrease, and Year 9 males falling to 56.5%, a 2.8% decrease. London continues to have the lowest HPV vaccine uptake in England, highlighting the need for continued efforts to improve coverage and ensure all eligible children are protected.
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