Title:
Factors Influencing Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Uptake in Ethiopia: Lessons from Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors:
Ahmed, Ekram Hussien
Place:
Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Publisher:
KIT Institute
Year:
2025
PAGE:
65
Language:
En
Subject:
Health and Poverty
Keywords:
HPV vaccine, vaccine hesitancy, Ethiopia, cervical cancer prevention
Abstract:
Introduction: Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Ethiopia. The human papillomavirus vaccine is globally recommended for its primary prevention, yet uptake in Ethiopia has remained suboptimal since its introduction in 2018. This review explores the factors shaping HPV vaccine uptake in Ethiopia and draws on experiences from comparable low- and middle-income countries to inform actionable recommendations. Methodology: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed and grey literature identified through systematic searches in PubMed, Google Scholar, the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Library Portal, and relevant organisational repositories. Snowballing techniques were also applied. The review was guided by the Model of Determinants of Vaccine Hesitancy, which categorises uptake drivers into contextual, individual/group/social, and vaccine-specific factors. Result: HPV vaccine uptake in Ethiopia is shaped by interconnected factors across individual, social, and system levels. Limited awareness and misinformation among adolescents and caregivers reinforce cultural concerns and mistrust. Out-of-school girls remain underserved because school-based vaccination strategies rarely reach them. Systemic barriers such as poor multisectoral coordination, absence of national policy, and reliance on donor funding undermine sustainability. Evidence from other LMICs highlights the value of locally adapted strategies, including culturally tailored communication, integration with adolescent health services, and targeted outreach efforts. Conclusion: Improving HPV vaccine uptake in Ethiopia requires long-term planning, strengthened coordination across sectors, and inclusive strategies that prioritise hard-toreach groups. Developing a dedicated national policy, securing domestic financing, and adapting evidence-based interventions to Ethiopia’s context are essential to ensuring equitable and sustainable vaccine delivery.
Organization:
KIT Institute/Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT Institute
Country:
Ethiopia
Region:
East Africa
Training:
Master of Science in Public Health and Health Equity
Category:
research
Right:
©2025 Ahmed
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
V2RNm9TeAI_20251211130247757.pdf