Doctors in Northern Ireland welcome HPV vaccination programme

Doctors in Northern Ireland have welcomed the Chief Medical Officer's announcement today, Wednesday 3 September 2008, to offer vaccination against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) to all 12-13 year old girls in Northern Ireland. HPV is the virus which can lead to the development of cancer, in particular cervical cancer.

Commenting on the announcement, BMA(NI) Public Health Chairman, Dr Colin Hamilton, said: "We are very glad to have the opportunity to prevent the impact of cervical cancer on future generations. It is the second most common cancer of women worldwide.

"For many years to come though the current cervical cancer screening programme will be essential and we would encourage all women to attend when invited to do so."

Dr Brian Dunn, Chairman of BMA(NI's) General Practitioners Committee also welcomed the announcement. "This is an important public health measure", he said, "and we would encourage all girls in this age group to take up the offer of vaccination. We are also pleased to see that this programme will be extended via the GP network to the wider teenage age group in Northern Ireland."