Globally, human papillomavirus (HPV) has been largely recognized as a leading cause of cervical cancer, with increasing indications of its significance in other anogenital cancers (anus, vulva, vagina, penis), head and neck cancers as well as genital warts.[1] [2] HPV comprises more than 100 serotypes, which are categorized as either low-risk or high-risk serotypes.[3] Among these, 30 serotypes target the genitals, with approximately 15 linked to cancer (high-risk HPV). In estimate, around 75% of people will contract HPV at some stage in their lives, and by the age of 50 years, at least 80% of women will have been infected by the virus.[3] The popularity of this lethal infection among men and women depicts a dire need for interventions through vaccination programs.[4] HPV vaccines have been rolled out and implemented as routine immunization schedules in the United States, Australia, and most European countries[5] [6]; however, a huge gap in vaccination exists in some African countries like Nigeria.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination in Nigeria: Is It Equitable?