Human Papillomavirus Vaccination in Tajikistan: A Review of Epidemiology, Policy Progress, and Remaining Challenges

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) remains a leading cause of cervical cancer globally, and Tajikistan faces a significant burden of HPV-associated disease. Despite high incidence and mortality rates, organized cervical cancer prevention strategies have historically been limited in the country. In 2025, Tajikistan introduced the HPV vaccine into its national immunization schedule, marking a significant milestone in strengthening women’s health and cancer prevention. This review synthesizes current knowledge on HPV epidemiology in Tajikistan, examines the rationale for national vaccine introduction, evaluates global and regional evidence on HPV vaccine effectiveness, and identifies implementation challenges and research gaps relevant to Tajikistan’s context. While the rollout represents important progress, long-term success depends on improving screening systems, ensuring equitable vaccine reach, enhancing public awareness, and generating local data to evaluate program outcomes.

human papillomavirus, HPV vaccine, cervical cancer, Tajikistan, immunization, public health, LMICs

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