Recent research showed the impact of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination on rates of cervical cell abnormalities (pre-cancer) in young women (2010-2015) in New Zealand.
The researchers found that receiving at least one dose of HPV vaccine before 18 years resulted in a 31% decreased incidence of high-grade cell abnormalities in women aged 20-24 years.
However, several important factors related to HPV vaccination have changed recently in New Zealand, for example:
- a decreased average age of vaccination;
- a new HPV vaccination (containing more HPV types);
- increased rates of HPV vaccination and the HPV vaccination also being available for males now.
The team will continue their research and focus on women aged 20-24 years for a further four years (2016-2019). This research project will accurately assess the current impact (and any change in the impact) of HPV vaccination on cervical cell abnormalities in young women in New Zealand.
Funding: $20,246