January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer, after breast cancer, to affect women aged 15–44 years in the European Union (EU). Each year, there are around 33 000 cases of cervical cancer in the EU, and an estimated 15 000 deaths. HPV vaccination is highly effective in protecting against the human papillomavirus, which is responsible for the large majority of cervical cancers.
The vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys, usually between 9 and 14 years of age, to prevent HPV infections and HPV-related diseases in both sexes.
Find the HPV vaccination schedule in your country with the ECDC Vaccine Scheduler:
