Boys should also be vaccinated against the human papilloma virus to protect against cancer, an MP says. Gardasil is a vaccine against certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) responsible for cervical cancer and genital warts.
HPV, which is often sexually transmitted, can cause cervical cancer in women and a range of cancers in men, yet only girls are routinely vaccinated against it.
Health experts have backed Sir Roger Gale’s call, saying the decision not to make all men eligible for NHS treatment ignores the sexual habits of ‘the Tinder generation’.
Sir Roger, former vice-chairman of the Tory Party, said: ‘Every year, approximately 2,000 males in their 50s and 60s develop HPV-related cancers from infections contracted in youth.
‘The cost of treatment is about £22million a year. The cost of vaccines and delivery would be about £21million. ’
All girls aged 12 and 13 have been routinely vaccinated since 2008, while gay and bisexual men were made eligible for the vaccination in February.
The Joint Council for Vaccination and Immunisation is set to make a decision to extend the treatment in June.
Dr Mick Armstrong, of the British Dental Association, spoke about the dangers of the virus.
All girls aged 12 and 13 have been routinely vaccinated since 2008, while gay and bisexual men were made eligible for the vaccination in February
He told the Daily Telegraph ‘Whether by accident or design they have understated cancer risk, and completely ignored the sexual habits of the Tinder generation.
‘That choice will cost lives. ’
