Role of HPV Vaccination in Preventing Cervical Cancer in Low-Income Settings

Abstract

Despite advances in cervical cancer screening and treatment, the disease remains a major cause of cancer deaths among women in low income countries because of a lack of access to effective screening and treatment services. Cervical cancer is caused primarily by persistent infection with high risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types, making HPV vaccination a vital preventive measure. The objective of this systematic review is to review the role and the impact of HPV vaccination programs in low income setting including coverage rates and implementation challenges and health outcomes. Results show that school based strategies generally result in coverage levels which surpass clinic based or community outreach strategies. In countries with well structured vaccination programs, cohort reductions in HPV 16 and 18 prevalence and cervical precancerous lesions can be observed in the HPV vaccinated cohorts. Barriers like vaccine hesitancy, logistical constraints and weak healthcare infrastructure exist but combined approaches of vaccination with health education and adolescent services increase acceptability and sustainability. Overcoming existing challenges requires continued support through global partnerships and culturally tailored interventions. Scaling up HPV vaccination in resource constrained environments will be critical to decreasing cervical cancer incidence and mortality and advancing global health equity.