The cervical cancer vaccine is called the HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine, and it protects against Cervical Cancer by preventing infection from Human Papillomavirus Infection. What is the HPV Vaccine? It is a preventive vaccine (not a treatment) Protects against high-risk HPV types (especially 16 & 18), which cause most cervical cancers Also protects against genital warts and some other cancers. Why is it Important? HPV causes almost all cases of cervical cancer Vaccine is nearly 100% effective against targeted high-risk HPV strains Helps prevent cancer before it even starts