Cancer vaccine for girls recommended
Wednesday, 4 June 2008 19:59
The Health Information and Quality Authority is recommending a vaccination programme against cervical cancer for girls aged 12.
The authority is also recommending a one-off vaccination for girls aged between 13 and 15.
The HIQA says that a vaccine programme - together with a screening programme - would have a significant impact on reducing cases of cervical cancer. A similar vaccination programme for young girls is in place in the UK.
Around 200 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in Ireland every year.
The cost of the three injections is in the region of €400 and would be administered to around 30,000 pupils every year.
However, the HIQA envisages the programme being run along the lines of the meningitis vaccination scheme, which is free and has an uptake rate of around 80%.
It has submitted its report to the Minister for Health, Mary Harney, who is expected to make a decision in a few months' time.
The Irish Cancer Society welcomed the recommendation, describing the vaccine as the most cost effective way of reducing cases of cervical cancer.
The National Parents' Council Post Primary said the vaccination was a part of the 'overall health and development' of students and would encourage parents to take part in any programme offered.
- Six One News: Edel McAllister reports HIQA isrecommending a vaccination programme against cervical cancer for girls aged 12
- One News: Edel McAllister reports that the authority recommends vaccination against cervical cancer for girls aged 12
- News At One: Dr Tracey Cooper, Chief Executive of HIQA, says the vaccine would have to be administered to women before they become sexually active
