Note for UK teen girls!

Over at Lolasland.com we’re working with the NHS to let UK teen girls know all about the new cervical cancer jab that’s available - here’s the lowdown on what it is, what it’s for and how to get it…

Chica, you may have heard of it, you may not, but HPV (Human papillomavirus) is a very common sexually transmitted infection and is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV vaccine protects against over 70% of cervical cancer, which is responsible for around a 1,000 deaths in the UK each year.

Arm against cervical cancer by taking part in the HPV vaccination programme provided by the NHS from this autumn onwards.

So…

What exactly is HPV?
HPV stands for human papillomavirus, and although there are over 100 types of these, only 13 are known to cause cancer. It’s important to protect yourself from this virus, as the chances of contracting HPV will increase when you start having sex.

How does it lead to cancer?
HPV is usually symptom free, and if left unnoticed and untreated it could damage the lining of your cervix, leading to cancer. That’s why it’s important to decide to have cervical screening when you’re older (from age 25).

Who does it effect?
In the UK there are around 3,000 new cases of cervical cancer diagnosed a year and around 1,000 of those end up being fatal.

This new vaccination is a huge step towards beating cervical cancer and could save the lives of over 400 women every year!

Can I get vaccinated?
Yes! If you’re living in the UK and aged 12 to 13 (school year , the vaccine will be available, most likely at your school, from this autumn onwards.

But not to worry if you’re older, chica! There will be a catch-up programme offered to all girls born between 1 September 1990 and 31 August 1995.

Do I have to get it more than once?
Yes, you’ll be vaccinated three times (within around a six month period) to ensure you’re properly protected against cervical cancer.

Is it compulsory?
No it’s not, it’s totally up to you and your parents whether you take part in the programme or not.

If you’re 12 to 13, you’ll probably need to get one of your parents or guardian to sign a consent form and you should talk to them about the vaccination - you can also see your GP who’ll be able to give you lots of information about it or you can chat to a nurse via the NHS webchat.

Remember chica, this is a totally life-saving, revolutionary vaccine! Let’s fight cervical cancer together and arm ourselves against it!

To find out more about the vaccination go to www.nhs.uk/hpv

If you head over to www.lolasland.com you could also win a whole set of signed Lola Love books by entering the Arm Against Cervical Cancer competition!