Irish Cancer Society calls for HPV vaccination to be given to boys

The Irish Cancer Society is calling on the Government to introduce gender-neutral vaccination in budget 2019. The call comes as today (Friday) marks the end of the public consultation period for the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) Health Technology Assessment (HTA) on extending the HPV vaccination programme to include boys.

 

 

HPV is responsible for a range of cancers in men including oropharyngeal, penile, anal, rectal and head and neck cancers.
According to HIQA’s draft report, extending the free vaccine to boys would cost an additional €10.4 million over five years.
The Irish Cancer Society believes that this will have significant benefits long into the future for children, who will be protected against a number of cancers and, consequentially, the health system, dealing with fewer cancers, will see a significant reduction in treatment costs.
Ms Power said: “Pending the results of the HTA, appropriate funding and resources must be allocated to support the successful implementation of gender-neutral vaccination in time for the new school year in September 2019.
“Alongside the vaccination roll-out, clear implementation plans, as well as comprehensive education and communication structures are needed, so that those administering the vaccine and health professionals are fully informed of the programme and are in a position to support parents.”

Ms Power also said that an effective media communications campaign will be required to provide accurate information and research to help to create awareness and assure and educate parents and their sons about the importance of the vaccination, to encourage strong uptake rates.