In a world first, Australia could be on track to see the eradication of deadly cervical cancer within 20 years, thanks to the development of the vaccine and the nationwide screening program.

The research shows it could become so rare in the next few years, it is no longer deemed a public health problem.

Immunologist Professor Ian Frazer helped to develop the life-saving HPV vaccine.

“It’s the vaccine plus the cervical cancer screening program that allows us to talk seriously about getting rid of cervical cancer all together,” he told Ross and John.

“This is a cancer caused by a virus infection and therefore we can get rid of the virus and therefore the cancer.”

The vaccine is offered to 12-14-year-olds, with a take up rate of 70-80 per cent for young people across the country.

It’s always been a team effort – Professor Ian Frazer

“It’s widely accepted it’s a really good thing to do now,” he said.

“It’s great to see the benefits of health and medical research actually being delivered to the community, and I’m delighted that I’ve been able to be a part of that,” he said.

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