School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Ulster Jordanstown HPV and Cervical Screening The Facts: A Health Promotion Initiative Kelly S, Mc Fadden SL School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Ulster Jordanstown   Introduction Aim Methodology Implications of study Cervical Cancer is the most common malignancy affecting women aged 20-24, with approximately 3,400 cases being diagnosed annually in the UK (Bomford and Knunkler 2003) as illustrated in figure 1. To increase awareness of the importance of cervical screening post HPV vaccination in adolescent women . A prospective study Investigating the knowledge young women have regarding continual cervical screening post HPV vaccination. A questionnaire survey will be provided comprised of 15 questions to access participants level of knowledge. A focus group of 200 females that meet the specific criteria as outlined in table 1 will be selected. Study will focus on females aged 20-21 who would have received their HPV vaccine in 2008 and who would be eligible for screening in 4 years The study is based on biosychosocial model of healthcare research. Data will be analysed into standardised percentage rates based on knowledge level. Data will be presented graphically as seen in Figure 2 which show prelimarny results based on increased patient knowledge. To highlight the importance of health education in disease prevention and early detection of cervical cancer Optimisation of cervical screening techniques that are being used e.g. change in screening age policy To increase the attendance rate for cervical screening To enable early detection of cervical malignancies therefore better prognosis of disease To improve NHS cost effectiveness. Concentrating funding into health promotion initiatives such as screening awareness post HPV vaccine, will result in long term saving of treatments for invasive cervical malignancies. Objectives Cervical Cancer (C53), Average Number of New Cases Per Year and Age-Specific Incidence Rates, Females, UK, 2007-2009   To determine current knowledge young women have regarding the importance of cervical screening post HPV vaccination To improve health education and increase Cervical Cancer prevention To improve attendance at cervical screening Figure 1 The aetiological factors associated with cervical cancer are relatively unknown, however scientific evidence links persistent infection with human papilomavirus (HPV) and the development of cervical carcinomas. Research by the PHA found that 50% of sexually active women become infected by genital HPV at least once in their life. There are over 40 different types of HPV that can effect the genital epithelium. Of these types 70% of cases originate from HPV 16 and 18. In 2008 the HPV vaccine programme Cervarix was implemented, offering up to 70% protection against cervical malignancies caused by HPV 16 and 18. Following this the Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme introduced a policy change, increasing the target age from 20 to 25 years old. However research has identified limitations in the vaccines long term immunity and its effectiveness in providing adequate protection against other strains of HPV. Therefore the question arises are young women aware of the role of continual cervical screening post HPV vaccination Figure 2: Standardised incidence rates of cervical smear attendance post media coverage Table1 Inclusion Criteria Exclusion Criteria Female (20-21 years) Received all 3 HPV vaccines doses in 2008 Resident in Northern Ireland Female of this age group who has had a cervical smear Female who experienced side effects from vaccine Figure 2