Vaccines are available now which offer protection from the group of viruses which cause about 75% of all cases of cervical cancer and 90% of all cases of genital warts.
A course of 3 vaccines over 6 months can be given to girls over the age of 9 as well as adult women. The vaccine is also licensed for use in boys over the age of 9 to prevent carriage of these viruses and genital wart infections.
The full course of these vaccines costs £400: although this can be paid at the beginning of the course, patients can also opt to pay for each vaccine as it is given (£140).
There is sound research evidence to confirm that the vaccine is most effective when given to younger people, and it should be given before the onset of sexual activity if at all possible.
The NHS has plans to begin vaccinating girls only at the age of 12 from September 2008. This is in contrast for example with the Australian healthcare system which has begun an immediate vaccination programme for both boys and girls.
At Private GP Services we offer this vaccine to both young women and men, it is a worthwhile vaccine in many circumstances and at different ages. Please ask if it is appropriate for your own situation.
Although this vaccine offers excellent protection, it remains important for adult
women to have smear tests. At Private GP Services we offer liquid based smear tests with results within a week.
To visit our 'Questions & Answers' page on the cervical cancer vaccine click here
Appointments for this vaccine are available daily. Please telephone us on 01245 234134 for further details.
