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Calls for more young people to take up HPV vaccine 8 minutes ago Patrick Barlow South East Getty Images HPV covers more than 100 different types of virus, many of which cause no issues in most people A cancer group says it wants more young people in Sussex and Surrey to get their HPV vaccination as part of a bid to eliminate certain forms of the disease. HPV (Human papillomavirus) can cause several types of cancer, including cervical cancer. The NHS says it wants to eradicate HPV by 2040.
Surrey and Sussex Cancer Alliance says two thirds of eligible children across both counties have been vaccinated against the infection, although levels have not reached those seen before the Covid-19 pandemic. A campaign targeting young people aged 18 to 25 aims to treat people who missed their vaccinations while at school. Dr Alex Norman, co-medical director of the cancer alliance, said: "The HPV vaccine is one of the most effective cancer prevention interventions available through the NHS." He said: "We know some young people missed opportunities to be vaccinated during their school years, including during the pandemic.
"The results from last year's campaign were extremely encouraging, with a significant increase in vaccination activity in university communities. "We want to build on that success and help even more young people protect their future health." What is HPV? HPV covers more than 100 different types of virus, many of which cause no issues in most people, but more serious types can lead to certain types of cancers such as cervical or mouth and throat cancers.
The viruses are usually spread through skin-to-skin or sexual contact. School-age girls began being offered the HPV vaccine from 2008, and boys began routinely being offered it in 2019. During its 2025 campaign, a spokesperson for the cancer alliance said vaccinations at GP clinics in 2025 which serve universities in the region rose by 117% compared to 2024.
Anyone wishing to get the vaccine should contact their GP practice, it advised. Posters and flyers were sent out to four universities in Sussex and Surrey during the campaign, it added. Dr Amy Dissanayake, deputy chief medical officer at NHS Surrey and Sussex, said: "Every vaccination represents an opportunity to prevent cancer before it develops.
"We are pleased to work with partners across Surrey and Sussex to promote uptake of the HPV vaccine and ensure young people understand both their eligibility and the benefits of vaccination." More on this story Related internet links
Source: BBC
