Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a recognized cause of cancer in both males and females. HPV vaccination prevents development of HPV-associated diseases.
Methods: Wisconsin HPV vaccination rates (2016-2019) were obtained from the Wisconsin Immunization Registry. Data was stratified by age, sex, Medicaid status, race/ethnicity, and ZIP code. Wisconsin vaccination rates were compared with national trends using data from the 2016, 2018, and 2019 National Immunization Survey-Teen.
Results: Wisconsin HPV vaccination rates remain consistently below national averages. HPV vaccination rates are improving-especially among males; however, vaccine coverage at the recommended age of 11-12 remains low. Rates of vaccine uptake differ by race/ethnicity, rurality/urbanicity, and Medicaid status.
Conclusion: Further initiatives are needed to increase awareness and acceptance of HPV vaccination for cancer prevention throughout Wisconsin.
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