The HPV vaccine means that women need many fewer cervical screens than at present, British researchers say today.
Women currently are offered 12 cervical screens – but this could be reduced to three, according to the new analysis.
These would be at the ages of 30, 40 and 55, according to the researchers at Queen Mary, University of London, UK.
The conclusions, reported in the International Journal of Cancer, have come from using a computer model taking account of the protection expected from the HPV vaccine – and the extent of uptake of the vaccine, offered to schoolgirls aged between 11 and 13.
New screening tests will check initially for HPV infection – and only look for cancer if the virus is present.
Researcher Professor Peter Sasieni, who advises Cancer Research UK on screening, said: “The NHS should benefit from the investment that it’s made by introducing the vaccination programme. These women are far less likely to develop cervical cancer so they don’t need such stringent routine checking as those at a higher risk.
“This decision would free up resources for where they are needed most.”
Landy et al. What cervical screening is appropriate for women who have been vaccinated against high risk HPV? A simulation study. International Journal of Cancer 10 November 2017
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