Inconsistencies in HPV vaccination coverage across Canada: a commentary

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) affects over 70% of men and women in Canada and is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Despite the preventable nature of HPV-related diseases through vaccines, the burden of these diseases persist in our society due to errors in past public health efforts and inadequacies of current ones. Specifically, strict limitations and inconsistencies in HPV vaccine coverage has left many young Canadians unprotected. This commentary will discuss the gaps in HPV preventative care across Canada, how this impacts disease prevalence, and what we as student advocates can do to make a difference in our communities.