Coverage and Compliance of Human Papillomavirus Vaccines in Paris: Demonstration of Low Compliance With Non-School-Based Approaches

ObjectiveTo evaluate the coverage and compliance of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine in Paris.MethodsWe selected a female population living in Paris, between the ages of 14 and 23 years (French recommendations) on December 31st, 2008, that was affiliated to social security (n = 77,744). We evaluated the dynamic of HPV vaccine dose reimbursement between July 2007 and April/May 2009 for this population.ResultsThe coverage rate in the study population with at least one dose of the vaccine was 17%. A complete vaccination scheme (three doses) was observed in less than 43% of affiliates, whereas two doses have been reimbursed to 26% of the affiliates and only one dose to 31%. Higher rates of coverage and compliance were observed among girls between 15 and 17 years of age.ConclusionCoverage and compliance rates corresponding to the French HPV vaccine program appear to be lower than those observed in countries with different recommendations and implementation strategies, and particularly school-based program. Our study suggests that health authorities should modify current recommendations.