A newly published report by Asc Academics and funded by MSD highlights the substantial economic burden associated with human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers and diseases across all countries researched including the Philippines.
The report estimates that preventing HPV-related cancers and diseases could avert at least 151,933 HPV-related cancers and save the country approximately USD1.39 billion (P74.5 billion) in healthcare costs.
This report, titled “HPV’s Economic Burden: Unmasking the Benefits of HPV Prevention,” underscores the urgent need for increased investments in HPV prevention strategies — vaccination and screening, and awareness to combat cervical cancer, which remains a leading cause of death among Filipino women.
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the Philippines, with more than 8,000 new cases diagnosed each year. The report emphasizes that persistent HPV infection is responsible for 95 percent of cervical cancer cases, making screening and vaccination a critical preventive measures. In the Philippines, HPV types 16, 18, 31, 45, 52, and 58 are detected in almost 90 percent of cervical cancers.
The Department of Health is implementing an HPV vaccination program for 9- to 14-year-old girls enrolled in public schools, aiming for 95 percent coverage. Despite these efforts, the Philippines currently ranks last on HPV program coverage among low-middle income countries, with coverage of only 23 percent of the target female population for the first dose and five percent for the final dose.
As the Philippines strives to meet the WHO’s 2030 elimination targets, addressing barriers to screening and treatment, as well as vaccination and increasing public awareness are essential steps toward a healthier future for all Filipinas.
“This research underscores how each country’s progress is shaped by unique healthcare systems, cultural views, investment, and policies. Common barriers include limited access, misinformation, hesitancy, varied provider recommendations, and cultural norms. Addressing these issues can expand prevention efforts, screening, and treatment programs, especially in countries with low coverage,” said Prof. Maarten J. Postma, Professor of Pharmacoeconomics at the University of Groningen.
He added, “Investing in HPV prevention saves lives and cuts future healthcare costs long-term, saving countries hundreds of millions of dollars per year, and even billions in some cases if elimination can be achieved.”
