Could the HPV vaccine eliminate cervical cancer deaths? (opens original article in a new tab)

A study shows the HPV vaccine has eliminated cervical cancer deaths in UK women under 30, with experts calling it a major milestone. The vaccine prevents high-risk HPV strains that cause cervical cancer, which remains a leading cause of cancer deaths globally, especially in low-income countries. Despite its effectiveness, vaccine hesitancy and disinformation hinder its adoption in some regions.

• HPV vaccine reduced cervical cancer deaths in UK women aged 20-24 to zero between 2020-2024.
• Cervical cancer is caused by high-risk HPV strains, with 95% of cases linked to HPV globally.
• Many low/middle-income countries face challenges in HPV vaccine coverage and vaccine hesitancy.
• HPV vaccine is part of national programs in India, China, Pakistan, and Indonesia to reduce cervical cancer deaths.