Discussion on Inclusion of HPV Vaccine in National Immunization Program
Discussions continue in Turkey regarding whether the HPV vaccine will be included in the National Immunization Program free of charge.
While debates continue over whether the HPV vaccine will be included in Turkey's National Immunization Program, it is emphasized that the vaccine should be provided free of charge to everyone, independently of economic power.
Status of the Vaccine in the Program
The issue of whether the HPV vaccine will be included in Turkey's National Immunization Program has once again come to the public agenda.
Former Health Minister Fahrettin Koca and current minister Kemal Memişoğlu had made statements indicating that the vaccine would be administered free of charge.
Scientific Evaluations and Data
Current Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu stated on August 15, 2026, that Turkey's HPV rates and cancer profile differ from other countries.
Minister Memişoğlu shared with the public that scientific evaluations in this direction are ongoing.
Transparency of Epidemiological Findings
While it is stated that epidemiological data must be handled with care, demands are being made for claims regarding Turkey's HPV profile to be shared with their evidence.
It is known that approximately 99 percent of cervical cancers are associated with HPV.
Global Targets and Cancer Types
The World Health Organization has set the complete elimination of cervical cancer as a global target.
It is stated that approximately 70 percent of cervical cancers in Turkey are associated with HPV16 or HPV18 virus types.
Economic Inequalities in Health
The fact that economic power is the most decisive factor in accessing the vaccine stands out in the discussions.
It is argued that health services cannot be distributed according to individuals' purchasing power and that this situation needs to change.
Preventive Health and Universal Access
Preventive health services are expected to be accessible to all segments of society, independently of income level.
It is stated that the combined vaccination of girls and boys is of great importance for community immunity.
Urgent Need for the Program
In line with all these justifications, demands are reiterated that the HPV vaccine should be included in the National Immunization Program immediately.