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SELCA partners with four-time Olympian Donna Fraser OBE and TikTok influencers to highlight how the HPV vaccine and regular cervical screening can prevent cervical cancer 

We have launched a new campaign to highlight how the HPV vaccine and regular cervical screening can prevent cervical cancer. 

In our main campaign ad, we join four-time British Olympian Donna Fraser OBE as she takes part in a 5K parkrun in south east London and interviews a fellow runner about how they prepare for a cervical screening appointment and why it is important to attend. 

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In addition, we've developed an innovative partnership with TikTok, working with over 13 creators to co-develop authentic videos that encourage the public to help the NHS achieve its goal of eliminating cervical cancer by 2040. The creators explain who is suitable for a HPV vaccine and how to get it, and why it's important for women and people with a cervix over the age of 25, who have had their vaccine to still attend regular cervical screening. 

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What is cervical screening?

Cervical screening, which can sometimes be referred to as a smear test, is a test to check the health of the cervix and help prevent cervical cancer. It's offered to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64. 

During the screening appointment, a soft brush will be used to take a small sample of cells from your cervix. The sample is checked for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause changes to the cells of your cervix. These are called high risk types of HPV and can increase the risk of several cancers including cervical cancer.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that infects the skin and cells lining the inside of the body, including the mouth, throat, and genitals. HPV infection usually causes no symptoms. For most people, HPV will be cleared from the body and they will never know they had it. Only the high risk types can cause cell changes. 

If high risk types of HPV are not found, you do not need any further tests. If these types of HPV are found, the sample is checked for any changes in the cells of your cervix. These can be treated to help prevent cervical cancer. 

Everyone with a cervix should go for cervical screening - even if you have previously had the HPV vaccination.

Here’s our top 10 cervical screening tips to help you feel more comfortable during your appointment: 

  1. Ask for a female nurse or doctor if that helps you feel more at ease.

  2. You can ask to try out different speculum sizes to find what works best. Ask the GP or nurse to use a water-based lubricant on the speculum. 

  3. Wear comfortable clothes, such as loose-fitting clothing. If you're worried about removing your clothes, you can wear a skirt, dress or long top. This may help you to feel more covered, as you can keep these clothes on during your test and will only be asked to take off your underwear.

  4. Try changing position – it’s allowed and can make a big difference.

  5. Bring a friend, family member or carer with you for support. 

  6. Read the screening information beforehand on the NHS website so you know what to expect

  7. Listen to music or bring something read or watch during the screening.

  8. Book a double appointment – give yourself plenty of time to get comfortable. 

  9. Plan your journey so you feel relaxed ahead of your appointment.

  10. Remember you’re in control – ask questions from your GP and nurse and ask to take breaks if needed.

What is the HPV vaccination? 

The HPV vaccine helps protect against human papillomavirus (HPV). It's recommended for children aged 12 to 13 years old and people at higher risk from HPV. 

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that infects the skin and cells lining the inside of the body, including the mouth, throat, and genitals. Most types of HPV are harmless. But some types are linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including: cervical cancer, mouth cancer, anal cancer, penile cancer, vulval cancer and vaginal Cancer. HPV can also cause genital warts.

With the HPV vaccine, only one dose is usually required for most of those who are eligible - making it quicker and easier to get protected. (UK Health Security Agency, 2023-2024)

Who is suitable for the vaccine and how can I get it?

 

Population Group

Younger Adults

Men who have sex with men

Who’s suitable?

Young people who missed out on their HPV vaccine at school, including:

  • Women from the age of 18 and until they turn 25 years of age.
  • Men born on or after 1- Sep-2006 and at least 18 years old.

Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, from the age of 18 years up to and including 45 years of age.

Total Dose

One dose, unless immunosuppressed in some way.

Doses are dependant on age and if you’re immunosuppressed:

  • One dose – under 25.
  • Two doses – 25 to 45.
  • Three doses – immunosuppressed or known to be HIV positive.

Where can I be vaccinated?

At your local GP practice on request.

At sexual health and HIV clinics:

  • Your local sexual health clinic (Find them here).
  • Your local HIV clinic (Find them here).
Why is the HPV vaccine important?

The HPV vaccine reduces your risk of cervical cancer. The vaccine has shown to dramatically reduce cervical cancer rates by almost 90% in women in their 20s who were offered it at school. (BMJ, 2023)

Get involved in the campaign

Please help support the campaign by spreading the word across your social media and with your networks and community partners. In the campaign toolkit below you’ll find assets and messaging you can use.

 

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