Devon Local Involvement Network
Jun 16, 2010
A reminder for all parents and carers - all girls should be armed against cervical cancer
NHS Devon's director of public health is reminding parents and carers that the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine can protect girls against cervical cancer.
The course of HPV vaccine consists of three injections given over a six-month period. All three doses must be given to provide protection.
This immunisation is normally given in schools and colleges, but NHS Devon is also holding community clinics for girls who for some reason did not manage to get their vaccination in school or college.
The community clinics are specifically to provide a venue for older girls no longer attending school or college but school age girls can also attend. Girls who are 18 and 19 years old must start their course before 31 August 2010 in order to complete it through the NHS.
This immunisation is normally given in schools and colleges, but NHS Devon is also holding community clinics for girls who for some reason did not manage to get their vaccination in school or college.
The community clinics are specifically to provide a venue for older girls no longer attending school or college but school age girls can also attend. Girls who are 18 and 19 years old must start their course before 31 August 2010 in order to complete it through the NHS.
Dr Virginia Pearson, director of public health for NHS Devon, said:
"Cervical cancer is one of the biggest killers of women in their 30s, so I urge all parents to ensure their daughters are protected at an early age.
"Infection with some types of HPV can cause abnormal tissue growth and other changes to cells, which can lead to cervical cancer.
"Almost one in every 100 women develops cervical cancer and more than 1,000 women die from it each year in the UK but it is the most preventable form of cancer."
All clinics are by appointment only and to book an appointment or for further advice, contact NHS Devon's immunisation team on 01392 208 469.
Sep 6, 2010
NHS Devon Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment
NHS Devon would like to hear your views about our draft Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA). The PNA maps existing pharmaceutical provision against current and future needs. It will be a basis for determining future pharmaceutical service provision and market entry to support local health need.
Sep 6, 2010
Prevent abuse of vulnerable people
Devon County Council is working with the Police, Health services and many other organisations to safeguard vulnerable people from abuse. They need your help to ensure that any abuse of vulnerable people is not tolerated. To report a concern contact Care Direct on 0845 1551 007 or contact the Police or for more information on safeguarding vulnerable adults, see Devon Safeguarding Adults web pages on www.devon.gov.uk/adult-protection
