The HPV Vaccine: Access and Use in the U.S. Published: Apr 8, 2026

https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/the-hpv-vaccine-access-and-use-in-the-u-s/ The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is the first and only vaccination that helps protect individuals from getting several cancers that are associated with different HPV strains. The vaccine holds the promise to safely prevent many kinds of cancers attributable to HPV that have long been responsible for the deaths of women and men. Since its introduction to the U.S. in 2006, the vaccine covers more strains of HPV, the dosage has dropped from three to two shots and the cost is fully covered by private insurance and public programs. The vaccine was originally recommended only for girls and young women, but was subsequently broadened to include boys, young men, and people of all genders. Uptake in the vaccine has risen over time, though there have been notable declines in vaccination rates since the COVID-19 pandemic. This factsheet discusses HPV and related cancers, use of the HPV vaccines for both females and males, and insurance coverage and access to the vaccine.