Missed EU targets? Polish HPV vaccination uptake in a 9-country comparison

Background

Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan aims to achieve 90% HPV vaccination coverage among girls by 2030. In Poland, despite the introduction of fully funded HPV vaccination in 2023, uptake remains unsatisfactory, placing the country significantly behind most EU member states. This slow implementation poses a major public health challenge and perpetuates health inequalities. To address this gap, Poland plans to introduce mandatory HPV vaccination, effective January 1, 2027.

Methods

A comparative analysis of immunization strategies in Poland and eight selected EU countries was conducted using data from the WHO, ECDC, OECD, and national sources. The study investigated the correlation between HPV vaccination coverage and key factors, including the chosen vaccination model, health literacy levels, and social inclusion strategies in national programs.

Results

The comparative analysis revealed significant discrepancies in HPV vaccination coverage across the selected EU countries. High-performing countries included Portugal and Sweden, while medium-performing countries were the Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany, and France. Low-performing countries included Romania and Bulgaria. In Poland, systemic barriers coupled with critical health literacy deficits contribute to low uptake, with overall coverage of the eligible population remaining below 20%. Regional disparities are also evident, with vaccination rates across individual voivodeships ranging from 10.8% to 21.8%. Notably, one-third of respondents indicated no intention to vaccinate their children against HPV.

Conclusions

Expanding HPV vaccination coverage should be accompanied by removing systemic barriers within the healthcare system. To effectively address social inclusion and reduce current regional disparities, strengthening school-based delivery models prior to the 2027 mandate is recommended. Finally, establishing new communication policies between decision-makers and stakeholders is essential.

Key messages

• Poland lags behind most EU states in HPV vaccine uptake. To improve coverage before the 2027 mandate, it’s essential to strengthen school-based delivery models and remove systemic healthcare barriers.

• Low health literacy and regional disparities hinder progress in Poland. A new communication policy is needed to build public trust, reduce social inequalities, and ensure equitable healthcare.