Wellbeing Futures: Innovation, Policy and Research

Vol. 1 (2025)
Articles

Adolescent HPV Vaccination: A U.S. and Global Perspective on Overcoming Barriers

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  • Valeria Gutierrez Garcia,
  • Rachel Mpanumpanu,
  • Asha Ciara Sneed,
  • Natalie Romero,
  • Lunthita M. Duthely
Valeria Gutierrez Garcia
Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School
Rachel Mpanumpanu
University of Miami School of Medicine, Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences
Asha Ciara Sneed
University of Maryland School of Medicine
Natalie Romero
University of Miami School of Medicine, Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences
Lunthita M. Duthely
University of Miami School of Medicine, Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences

Published 2025-12-24

Keywords

  • HPV,
  • Human papillomavirus,
  • Vaccination,
  • Immunization disparities,
  • Cancer prevention,
  • Adolescent health,
  • global health equity
    • ...More
    Less

Copyright (c) 2025 Valeria Gutierrez Garcia, Rachel Mpanumpanu, Asha Ciara Sneed, Natalie Romero, Lunthita M. Duthely (Author)

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

Adolescent HPV Vaccination: A U.S. and Global Perspective on Overcoming Barriers. (2025). Wellbeing Futures: Innovation, Policy and Research, 1, 125-129. https://doi.org/10.65638/2978-882X.2025.01.10

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States and a major contributor to preventable cancers, including cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers, with consequences for individual and population wellbeing. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, HPV vaccination rates remain significantly lower than those for other adolescent immunizations. This health equity-focused editorial explores key factors contributing to low vaccine uptake, including age-based recommendations, testing limitations, affordability, and structural barriers to access. Regional and gender disparities within the U.S., coupled with stark global differences between high-income and low- and middle-income countries, highlight the urgent need for targeted strategies. Improving HPV vaccination coverage requires a multifaceted approach, combining public education, provider advocacy, and capacity building to ensure equitable access. Addressing these gaps is essential to reduce HPV-related disease burden, improve population wellbeing and advance global health equity.

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