Germany is taking insufficient advantage of the possibility of preventing cancer through vaccine against human papyrus ( HPV), according to an analysis published by the German newspaper Bild, based on the first HPV Atlas in Germany for 2026.

According to data from the Robert Koch Institute, during 2021 in Germany, about 11,000 new cancer cases linked to HPV were recorded, of which some 7,600 in women and 3,000 in men.

The virus does not only cause cervical cancer; it can also be linked to tumors in the mouth and throat, anus, penis, seal, and vagina. In men, mouth cancer and throat related HPV is a growing concern.

Although research shows that vaccines significantly reduce infections, precancer changes, and the risk of cervical cancer, vaccination rates in Germany remain low, Telegraphed.

In 2024, only 55% of 15-year-old girls and 36 percent of the boys of the same age had completed anti-inoculation HPV. In Portugal, by comparison, the covering of vaccines for both genders exceeds 90%.

The data also shows major regional differences within Germany: Saxonia-Anhalt has the highest vaccination rates, while Baden-Württemberg ranks last among both girls and boys.

To improve the situation, the German Center for Cancer Research and German Cancer Assistance propose better information campaigns, digital systems for invitations and reminders, integration of vaccines into prevention checks and voluntary vaccine opportunities in schools.

According to recommendations at HPV Atlas 2026, a national strategy for preventing HPV-related cancer and a digital system for recording vaccines is also needed.

The vaccine is recommended for girls and boys between the ages of 9 and 14, while non-vaccinated persons can complete the vaccine by their 18th birthday, according to German recommendations.

Experts stress that early vaccines are one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer and that improving coverage can prevent many cases of illness in the future./Telegraphy/