HPV Vaccination Rates in Germany Remain Low Despite Proven Cancer Prevention

While HPV vaccinations are rising post-pandemic, Germany lags behind countries like Scotland in achieving high immunization rates to combat HPV-related cancers.

HPV is linked to multiple cancers, including cervical, anal, and throat cancers, with over 6,000 women and 1,600 men diagnosed annually in Germany.
Vaccination rates in Germany are significantly lower than in countries like Scotland, where high immunization rates have virtually eliminated cervical cancer.
In 2023, HPV first-dose vaccinations in Germany increased by 12% compared to the previous year, though they remain 30% below pre-pandemic levels.
The Ständige Impfkommission (Stiko) recommends vaccination for children aged 9 to 14, but only 54.6% of girls and 34% of boys aged 15 in Germany are fully vaccinated.
Barriers to higher vaccination rates include lack of awareness, insufficient school-based programs, and lingering vaccine hesitancy among parents.