HPV vaccines are crucial in the global fight to eradicate cervical cancer, yet millions of girls remain without access to this life-saving protection.
A woman dies from cervical cancer every two minutes globally, and the number of new cases continues to rise. The primary cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is preventable through vaccination. When paired with screening and proper treatment, the HPV vaccine plays a major role in the fight against this disease.
Although over 145 nations have included the HPV vaccine in their regular immunisation efforts, many women and girls, especially those in the poorest regions, still do not have the protection, screening, or care they need.
Here are five important facts about HPV and cervical cancer:
1. Cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer among women.
In 2022 alone, cervical cancer claimed around 350,000 lives and caused about 660,000 new infections. These deaths are largely avoidable but continue to devastate families, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, Central America, and Southeast Asia—areas with the highest mortality rates.
2. HPV is responsible for the vast majority of cervical cancer cases.
More than 95% of cervical cancers stem from HPV, which is the world’s most widespread sexually transmitted virus. With over 200 variants—many symptomless—some strains can lead to long-term infections and pre-cancerous conditions, making prevention and early detection critical.
3. The HPV vaccine can prevent nearly 90% of cervical cancer cases.
Vaccination is the most effective method to guard against HPV, especially the types linked to most cervical cancer cases. Many countries now vaccinate girls aged 9 to 14, but uptake remains low. As of 2023, only 20% of girls globally have received the full vaccination.
4. Screening and treatment save lives.
Routine tests can detect cervical cancer early, when it’s often curable with surgery alone. However, many women still lack access to affordable, proven screening and treatment tools because local healthcare services are under-equipped.
5. The poorest countries bear the greatest burden.
Cervical cancer disproportionately affects women in low- and middle-income nations. In 2022, over 90% of deaths occurred in these areas. Efforts must focus on improving access to vaccines, screenings, and treatments:
- Less than a quarter of low-income countries have introduced the HPV vaccine.
- Fewer than 5% of women in these countries have ever been screened.
- Less than 5% of cancer patients in the poorest regions receive timely, effective surgery.
UNICEF’s Role
UNICEF is helping combat cervical cancer through partnerships and support by:
- Supplying affordable HPV vaccines and diagnostic tools.
- Enhancing healthcare systems with trained personnel and better infrastructure for vaccine distribution.
- Engaging communities to build trust in the vaccines and combat misinformation.
- Supporting research to track vaccine impact and improve program strategies.