Why Romanian Teenagers Do Not Get the HPV Vaccine – Causes, Solutions, and Long-Term Impact

In Romania, the HPV vaccination rate among teenagers remains extremely low, despite the fact that this vaccine is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer and other diseases caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Given that Romania ranks among the top countries in Europe for both incidence and mortality from cervical cancer, the question arises: why do young people and their parents choose not to take advantage of this opportunity?

What is HPV and Why is the Vaccine Vital for Teenagers’ Health

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus that infects both men and women. HPV infection is extremely common – more than 80% of people will contract it at some point in their lives. In most cases, the body clears the virus on its own, but in some instances, it persists and causes precancerous lesions or even cancer.

The HPV vaccine protects against oncogenic strains of the virus, responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases, as well as anal, oropharyngeal, and penile cancers. Administering the vaccine during adolescence, before the onset of sexual activity, provides maximum effectiveness and long-lasting immunity.

Alarming Statistics in Romania

Romania records one of the highest cervical cancer mortality rates in Europe. According to official data:

➛Approximately 3,400 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year.

➛More than 1,800 Romanian women die annually from this disease.

➛Only a small percentage of teenage girls benefit from the free vaccine provided by the Ministry of Health.

These figures show that the lack of vaccination has serious and direct consequences on public health.

Main Reasons Why Romanian Teenagers Do Not Get the HPV Vaccine

1. Lack of Accurate and Complete Information

Many parents and teenagers do not have sufficient knowledge about the benefits of the HPV vaccine. There is widespread confusion between HPV and other vaccines, along with a lack of consistent and coherent national information campaigns.

2. Fear of Side Effects

A significant percentage of parents refuse to vaccinate their children due to concerns about possible side effects. Although the vaccine has been rigorously tested and used worldwide for more than a decade, myths and misinformation spread quickly both online and in the public sphere.

3. Bureaucratic Barriers and Limited Access to the Vaccine

Although the HPV vaccine is available free of charge for girls aged 11 to 18, access is often difficult. Family doctors must submit special requests, which leads to delays and a lack of continuity in vaccination campaigns.

4. Cultural Reluctance and Parental Mentality

In Romanian society, topics related to sexuality are often considered taboo. Many parents refuse to vaccinate their children because they associate the vaccine with the start of sexual activity, believing it encourages promiscuity – a completely false myth, but deeply ingrained.

5. Lack of Involvement from Educational Institutions

Schools in Romania rarely provide information about cervical cancer prevention or the importance of vaccination. This lack of health education in schools significantly contributes to the general mistrust of the vaccine.

The Impact of Refusing the HPV Vaccine on Public Health

The decision not to vaccinate teenagers against HPV is not just a personal choice – it has profound consequences on public health. The increase in cancer cases, the immense costs of oncological treatments, and the suffering of patients and their families are direct outcomes of these decisions.

Furthermore, the lack of immunization among young people means Romania will continue to rank among the top European countries in terms of cervical cancer mortality.

International Examples – What We Can Learn from Other Countries

Countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and Sweden have implemented effective HPV vaccination programs and have managed to significantly reduce cervical cancer incidence. In Australia, for example, vaccination rates exceed 80%, and experts estimate the disease could be eradicated within a few decades.

These results clearly demonstrate that education, public campaigns, and simplified access to vaccines can radically change the situation.

How We Can Increase HPV Vaccination Rates in Romania

1. National Information Campaigns

Sustained and well-structured campaigns are needed, supported by doctors, civil society, and the media, to provide clear, accurate, and accessible information to parents and teenagers.

2. Involvement of Schools and Teachers

Health education must be introduced in schools, with a focus on disease prevention and the importance of vaccination. Informed teenagers are more likely to make responsible decisions.

3. Simplifying Bureaucratic Procedures

Access to the vaccine must be quick and direct, without waiting lists or complicated procedures. Availability of the vaccine in family doctors’ offices and school health centers could significantly increase immunization rates.

4. Combating Online Misinformation

It is essential to develop official information platforms where parents and teenagers can find evidence-based answers, countering myths and conspiracy theories.

5. Involvement of Opinion Leaders and Doctors

Trust in doctors and local opinion leaders is high. If they deliver clear and consistent messages about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine, the impact on families’ decisions would be significant.

The refusal of HPV vaccination among teenagers in Romania represents a major public health issue. Lack of accurate information, bureaucratic barriers, and conservative mentalities contribute to an extremely low immunization rate. To reduce cervical cancer mortality and protect future generations, it is essential to adopt effective strategies for education, communication, and easy access to the vaccine.

Only through a joint effort by authorities, healthcare professionals, teachers, and parents can we change the current situation and offer our teenagers the chance at a healthier future.

nykublondu 21/08/2025