Suffolk HPV vaccine uptake falls for second year

Why it matters: The human papillomavirus vaccine protects against nearly all cervical cancers, as well as head and neck, anal, and genital cancers.

By the numbers:

• 83.1% of year 8 girls in Suffolk were vaccinated last year (down from 84.7%)
• 78.2% of year 8 boys vaccinated (down from 80.9%)
• Pre-pandemic rate was 86.5% for girls

The bigger picture: While Suffolk's vaccination rates are declining, they remain above the national average. Across England, HPV vaccine coverage among year 8 girls increased slightly from 71.3% to 72.9% last year, though still well below the 88% pre-pandemic rate.

What they're saying: Cancer Research UK's chief executive, Michelle Mitchell, said: "Thanks to the power of research and efforts of NHS staff, we can eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem in our lifetime – the HPV vaccine combined with cervical screening can help to bring about a future virtually free from the disease."

What to know: The vaccine is offered to all 12 to 13-year-olds in schools and community clinics. People under 25 can contact their GP practice to get the jab if they missed it in school.

The bottom line: NHS England aims to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040, but nearly a third of young people still lack this "vital protection," according to Steve Russell, national director for vaccinations and screening.