February 10, 2020

expert reaction to study on single dose of HPV vaccine

Research, published in the journal Cancer, reports that a single does of the HPV vaccine may be just as effective as multiple doses for preventing cervical cancer. 

Prof Adam Finn, Professor of Paediatrics at the University of Bristol, said:

“The evidence from studies around the world that as few as a single dose of HPV vaccine can protect against cervical cancer is steadily growing. Several more studies are expected to report in coming years. Standard regimens have already been reduced from three to two doses and it may be possible to reduce further to one dose if additional evidence comes through supporting this change. Given the limited available supplies of vaccine globally and the urgent need to protect girls and young women worldwide against this, the second biggest cancer killer in females after breast cancer – this would be a very positive development.

“We are all eagerly waiting for more information on this and the latest study reported here adds further encouragement. For the moment, though, the best advice is to stick to the recommended two dose schedule to ensure optimal protection.”

‘Comparison of the Long-Term Impact and Clinical Outcomes of Fewer Doses and Standard Doses of Human Papillomavirus Vaccine in the United States: A Database Study’ by Ana M. Rodriguez et al. was published in Cancer at 5.01am UK Time on Monday 10 February 2020. 

DOI: 10.1002/cncr.32700

Declared interests

Adam Finn receives no personal income from vaccine manufacturers and does not do research or consultancy related to HPV vaccines. His employer, the University of Bristol, has receiving funding for a research project that he leads relating to meningitis-causing bacteria from GSK, a company that makes one of the two available HPV vaccines which was used previously in the UK although not currently.