A major global push to expand access to the HPV vaccine has already saved more than one million lives across lower-income countries, according to new data released by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. The accelerated programme, revitalised in 2023, has now protected an estimated 86 million girls in the world’s highest-risk regions and is projected to prevent 1.4 million future deaths from cervical cancer.
Gavi confirmed that by the end of 2025, the HPV vaccine will be available in countries that account for 89% of all cervical cancer cases globally, a significant milestone reached ahead of schedule. Before the scale-up began, many low-income countries suffered from extremely low coverage due to supply constraints, limited awareness, and logistical barriers. In some Gavi-supported African countries, coverage was as low as 4%.
The programme has also delivered substantial economic gains. Since 2014, Gavi estimates that HPV vaccination in 43 lower-income countries has generated $2.32 billion in economic benefits, driven by reduced healthcare costs and improved productivity as fewer women face preventable cancer outcomes.
Gavi CEO Dr. Sania Nishtar described the progress as the result of “incredible commitment” from governments, civil society, communities, and global health partners. Evidence shows that the HPV vaccine remains one of Gavi’s most effective interventions, preventing about 17 deaths for every 1,000 girls vaccinated in supported countries.
The momentum is visible across Africa. Ghana recently rolled out a nationwide vaccination campaign targeting 2.4 million girls aged 9 to 14, backed by Gavi, WHO, and UNICEF. With continued investment, Gavi aims to vaccinate more than 120 million additional girls between 2026 and 2030, potentially saving 1.5 million more lives.
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