Panel to decide on cervical cancer jab for girls

A government panel is set to decide if UK girls should receive a vaccination as part of cancer treatment.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation is set to look at evidence surrounding the introduction of the jab to prevent the development of against human papillomavirus (HPV).

HPV causes around 70 per cent of cervical cancers - a cancer that affects approximately 3,000 women in the UK and causes 1,120 deaths per year.

It is widely expected that the committee will support the vaccination but it is unclear if a firm date for the programme to begin will be agreed on.

Gardasil, a vaccine made by Merck and Sanofi Pasteur has already been approved for use in 76 countries and a further product Cevarix is expected to be launched in Europe before the end of the year.

However, the cost of the three injections to be administered over three months could total around £300 and critics have raised concerns it could encourage sexual behaviour in younger children.

Conservative shadow health minister John Baron, speaking to the BBC, explained that the government was "failing to take a lead on the issue". 
   
© Adfero Ltd