A landmark study has found that girls vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV) at ages 12 and 13 face an almost zero risk of dying from cervical cancer before the age of 30, providing the strongest evidence yet of the vaccine’s life-saving impact.
The research, the first of its kind, shows a dramatic decline in cervical cancer deaths since the HPV vaccination programme was introduced for school-age girls in England in 2008. Researchers estimate that approximately 200 lives have already been saved as a result of the programme.
One of the most striking findings revealed that no cervical cancer deaths were recorded among women aged 20 to 24 between 2020 and 2024. Experts estimate that, without vaccination, around 23 deaths would have been expected during that period.
Professor Peter Sasieni, the lead researcher from Queen Mary University of London, described the findings as remarkable, saying it was extraordinary that a single vaccine could nearly eliminate a specific form of cancer. He noted that the benefits seen so far represent only the beginning, with even more lives expected to be saved as vaccinated generations grow older.
Cervical cancer remains the 14th most common cancer among women in the UK, with around 3,300 new cases diagnosed each year. Health experts estimate that HPV, a virus transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact, is responsible for 99% of cervical cancer cases. While most HPV infections clear naturally without causing harm, some can trigger abnormal cell changes that may develop into cancer years later.
Cancer Research UK, which funded the study, hailed the results as an important breakthrough in cancer prevention. Chief Executive Michelle Mitchell said the findings provide the first direct evidence that the HPV vaccine is not only preventing cervical cancer but also saving lives.
The study also highlights personal stories behind the statistics. Alexandra Legg, who left school shortly before the vaccine was introduced, was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2021 at the age of 30 while preparing for her wedding. The diagnosis led to major surgery, including the removal of lymph nodes, although doctors managed to preserve part of her cervix, allowing her the possibility of having children.
A year later, she gave birth to her daughter Ivy, whose middle name, Marvella, means “miracle.” Reflecting on her experience, Legg said she strongly supports the HPV vaccination programme and intends for her daughter to receive the vaccine as soon as she becomes eligible.
Researchers believe the reduction in deaths observed so far is only the beginning. Professor Sasieni said future generations will continue to benefit as vaccination coverage expands and vaccinated individuals reach older age groups, where cervical cancer risks are traditionally higher.
Despite the success of the programme, health officials remain concerned about declining vaccination rates. Data from the UK Health Security Agency shows that 76% of girls in England had received the HPV vaccine by age 15 during the 2024-25 period, well below the 90% target recommended by the World Health Organization to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health threat.
Cancer Research UK has urged authorities to take targeted action to improve vaccine uptake, particularly in communities where coverage remains low. The UK government has pledged to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem by 2040 and is introducing additional measures, including catch-up vaccination campaigns through community pharmacies.
Health officials also stress that women aged 25 to 64 should continue attending regular cervical screening appointments, even if they have been vaccinated. Meanwhile, boys have also been eligible for the HPV vaccine since 2019, helping protect them from several HPV-related cancers while reducing transmission of the virus.
The Department of Health and Social Care described the study as clear evidence of the extraordinary impact of the HPV vaccination programme and reaffirmed its commitment to increasing vaccine uptake and expanding screening efforts across England.
