Private MD News

Cost a major factor in seeking HPV vaccination

Category: Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Despite the fact that increasing numbers of women are receiving positive STD tests for human papillomavirus (HPV), many women never seek the vaccine for the virus. A new survey suggests that the cost of the vaccination may play the largest role in determining whether women pursue the test or not.

Researchers from Indiana University asked 1,323 women between the ages of 27 and 55 about factors that would play into their decision to get vaccinated. The majority of women said that cost was the biggest factor.

Women said that they would be interested in receiving a vaccine for HPV if it were free. However, most vaccinations cost around $350.

"With the accumulating empirical evidence that vaccination of women over the age of 26 can be beneficial, it is important to understand specific factors associated with HPV vaccine acceptability," said researcher Nathan Stupiansky. "This study clarifies some of the issues for acceptance including cost and prior knowledge of the vaccine."

He added that, despite the fact that insurance or public programs cover the cost of vaccination for girls between the ages of 9 and 17, there are few options for older women who are unable to pay the out-of-pocket expense for the procedure.