Vaccination for Human Papillomavirus: Immunization Practices in the U.S. Military

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection and is a leading etiology for cancer. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends routine vaccination of males and females aged 11–26 years. Studies suggest that U.S. military service members have higher HPV incidence rates and lower vaccination rates compared to the national average. Although the U.S. military enforces many recommended vaccines, the HPV vaccine fails to make the list.

AT A GLANCE

• Military healthcare leaders and policymakers can use research findings and evidence-based practice to increase HPV vaccine compliance among their beneficiaries.
• HPV vaccine uptake strategies include policy reform, process guidelines, educational strategies, and mandates.
• An updated U.S. military policy could include the most recent ACIP guidelines on the HPV vaccine and provide guidance about increased avenues for vaccine availability to service members.