Reframing HPV Prevention: The Role of Male Vaccination in Advancing Female Vaccine Uptake

A webinar in our popular Men, Cancer and HPV series, this event focuses on the role of male vaccination in advancing female vaccine uptake. It took pace on 20 July 2026. Despite increasing attention around the world to HPV prevention, the impact of vaccinating males against HPV on female vaccination rates is insufficiently recognised as part of global HPV prevention policy and practice. No other vaccine is routinely offered to just one sex in many countries. Routine universal (gender-neutral) HPV vaccination programmes simplify public health messaging, are more resilient and less stigmatising than female-only programmes, as well as being more ethical and equitable. This webinar will discuss how vaccinating boys for HPV can also increase vaccine uptake among girls. Drawing on evidence and insights from Tanzania, France, Cameroon and elsewhere, the presenters will examine young people’s and community stakeholders’ views on male HPV vaccination, the potential benefits of providing parents with HPV vaccine information from a male perspective, and healthcare workers’ perspectives on implementing universal HPV vaccination.