UK HEALTH officials are raising concerns about growing geographical inequalities in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage among adolescents, gaps that could undermine efforts to eliminate cervical cancer in England by 2040.
According to new data published by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the uptake of the HPV vaccine among Year 10 students varies widely across the country. In 2023–2024, HPV coverage in girls ranged from just 38.7% in Lambeth to 97.6% in Northumberland, with London having the lowest regional average at 64.9%. Boys fared even worse in some areas, with coverage in Lambeth as low as 28.2%, compared with 92.2% in West Berkshire. These disparities are particularly concerning given that cervical cancer incidence in England is 65% higher in the most deprived populations.
The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing cervical and other HPV-related cancers when administered before the age of 16. While a single dose now suffices, catch-up vaccinations remain free and effective up to age 25 through GPs. The current NHS programme offers vaccination to both girls and boys in Years 8 and 9, recognising the virus’s role in causing not only cervical cancer but also genital, oral, and throat cancers in men and women alike.
UKHSA Consultant Epidemiologist Sharif Ismail stressed the urgency of addressing these inequalities: “Every vaccination represents a young person with better protection against the devastating impact of HPV-related cancers, and we must do more to ensure no one is denied that protection based on where they live.” Public health experts also emphasised that vaccination does not replace the need for cervical screening, which remains essential for early detection and treatment.
Improving HPV vaccine uptake requires coordinated action across local authorities, schools, and GP practices. With only one dose now required, and the vaccine freely available until age 25, there is a key opportunity to close the coverage gap and make cervical cancer elimination a reality.
Reference
GOV.UK. Uneven HPV uptake in some areas increases cervical cancer risk. 2025. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uneven-hpv-uptake-in-some-areas-increases-cervical-cancer-risk. Last accessed: 26 June 2025.
