Estimated acceptance of HPV vaccination among Italian women aged 18-26 years

► About 50% of the enrolled 18-26-year-old women accepted HPV vaccination, pointing out the difficulties of reaching young adult women. ► The acceptance rate was higher for residents of northern and central Italy, women with a high educational level, students. ► In Italy, current rates of primary target (64%) emphasize that achieving high coverage is challenging also in younger groups. ► The extension of vaccination to older groups should be postponed until acceptable coverage for 11-year-old girls has been reached. ► Public-health efforts should be enhanced to encourage cervical screening programs participation and promote HPV vaccination of the priority target.