A historic milestone in cancer prevention has just been reached: for the first time on record, no women in their early 20s died from cervical cancer in England during 2020-2024. This breakthrough is directly linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which has been protecting young people from the virus that causes nearly all cervical cancers.

How Did the HPV Vaccine Achieve This Result?

The HPV vaccine works by training your immune system to recognize and fight the virus before it can cause harm. When you receive the vaccine, your body produces antibodies against HPV. If you're exposed to the virus later in life, your immune system can quickly identify it and clear it from your body before it has a chance to develop into cancer.

Around 9 in 10 women in their early 20s received the HPV vaccine, most when they were 12 or 13 years old, which is when the vaccine offers the strongest protection. The UK introduced its HPV vaccination programme in 2008, and the results are now undeniable.

What Does This Mean for Cervical Cancer Prevention?

This new data represents the strongest evidence yet that the HPV vaccination programme is not only preventing cervical cancer but actively saving lives. Researchers estimate that the vaccine has reduced the risk of cervical cancer death before age 30 to effectively zero. Approximately 200 cervical cancer deaths have already been prevented in England, but experts believe this is just the beginning.

"As vaccinated generations grow older, we'll see many more lives saved from cervical cancer. It is incredible to think that a single jab can almost eliminate a particular type of cancer, and this new research shows just how vital it is to keep HPV vaccination levels high so more people are protected," explained Professor Peter Sasieni, the lead researcher on the study.

Professor Peter Sasieni, Lead Researcher

The vaccine protects against high-risk HPV types that can cause cancer if they persist in the body for years. Most people naturally clear HPV infections on their own, but the vaccine ensures your immune system can do this quickly and effectively.

Who Can Get the HPV Vaccine and When?

The HPV vaccine is offered to boys and girls at ages 11-13 through school-based programmes delivered by NHS teams. However, access extends beyond this age group for those who missed the initial vaccination window:

• Girls and women: Can receive the vaccine free at their GP up to age 25 if they didn't get it at school
• Boys: Receive the vaccine through the school programme at ages 11-13
• Men who have sex with men and some transgender people: Can access the vaccine free through sexual health and HIV clinics up to age 45

Despite the vaccine's proven effectiveness, uptake rates remain below optimal levels. Around 76-86% of girls in the UK are vaccinated by age 15, falling short of the 90% target recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). For boys, vaccination rates range from 71-80% by age 15, with no formal target currently in place.

Why Are Some People Still Not Getting Vaccinated?

Several barriers prevent eligible people from receiving the HPV vaccine. These include challenges around obtaining parental consent, some local authorities not completing required catch-up vaccination activities, and vaccine hesitancy among the public. Addressing these gaps is crucial for reaching the WHO's 90% target and continuing the progress already achieved.

The UK, along with England, Wales, and Scotland, has set an ambitious goal to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem by 2040, aligning with WHO's global objective. However, this goal depends on maintaining and increasing vaccination rates.

"Alongside cervical screening, HPV vaccination is central to the NHS ambition to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040. It's a safe and effective vaccine and we urge everyone eligible to take up the offer when invited," said Caroline Temmink, NHS Director of Vaccination.

Caroline Temmink, NHS Director of Vaccination

Should Vaccinated People Still Get Cervical Screening?

Yes. While the HPV vaccine is highly effective, it doesn't protect against all high-risk HPV strains. The combination of HPV vaccination and cervical screening is the most effective approach to preventing cervical cancer. Even vaccinated individuals should attend cervical screening appointments when invited.

One woman's story illustrates why ongoing screening remains important. Alex was diagnosed with cervical cancer at age 30 in 2021 after cervical screening revealed HPV and abnormal cells. She underwent surgery to remove her cervix and lymph nodes, but her surgeon preserved 0.5 centimeters of her cervix to preserve her fertility. Seven months after surgery, Alex became pregnant and gave birth to her daughter Ivy in August 2022. In 2024, cervical screening identified HPV again, and Alex underwent a hysterectomy. Now an advocate for both the vaccine and screening, Alex emphasizes the importance of both preventive measures.

"If sharing my story encourages women to attend their cervical screening appointments when invited and helps young people understand the importance of the HPV vaccine, then I know I'm helping to raise awareness and potentially make a difference," Alex shared.

Alex, Cervical Cancer Survivor

The historic achievement of zero cervical cancer deaths in women under 30 in England represents a turning point in cancer prevention. However, maintaining this progress requires sustained effort to increase vaccination rates, particularly in communities where uptake remains lowest. As more vaccinated generations age, the full impact of this life-saving vaccine will become even more apparent.