China Approves First Male HPV Vaccine, Driving High Vaccination Willingness
Following the landmark approval of the first human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for males in mainland China in January 2025, studies reveal a strong willingness among men to receive the vaccination. Research indicates a significant, yet largely untapped, demand for the vaccine, despite relatively low overall awareness of HPV and its associated risks.
Rising Vaccination Rates and Key Demographics
A cross-sectional study conducted in Beijing surveyed 480 community-based male residents and 399 men who have sex with men (MSM). The study, published in November 2025, found an overall high level of vaccination willingness, with 87.29% of community-recruited men and a notably higher 90.73% among MSM expressing a desire to be vaccinated [1]. This suggests a substantial latent demand for HPV vaccination among men in China.
Factors Influencing Vaccination Willingness
The research highlighted differing factors driving vaccination willingness between the two groups. For men in the general community, income and sexual behavior were key determinants. Among MSM, HPV knowledge and a history of self-testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were more significant drivers [1].
Interestingly, the study found that perceived benefits of vaccination were a strong motivator across both groups, while a high sense of self-efficacy in preventing HPV infection paradoxically acted as a deterrent. MSM reported higher perceived susceptibility to and benefits from vaccination, but lower perceived severity of HPV-related diseases compared to community-recruited men.
The Role of Knowledge and Targeted Education
The study underscores the importance of addressing knowledge gaps regarding HPV. Willingness to vaccinate surpassed actual awareness of the virus, indicating a significant opportunity to convert latent demand into actual vaccination uptake. Researchers suggest that universal vaccination campaigns should focus on highlighting the benefits of the vaccine, while targeted educational initiatives for MSM should prioritize improving the accuracy of HPV knowledge [1].
Willingness-to-Pay Among MSM
Further research, utilizing a discrete choice experiment (DCE) conducted from October 31 to November 30, 2023, among MSM aged 15–45 years in China, revealed a high willingness-to-pay for the HPV vaccine [3]. The study identified that prevention of genital warts and vaccine cost were major factors influencing uptake. MSM also expressed a preference for receiving the vaccine at MSM-friendly clinics with extended service hours [3].
Importance of Public Health Support
The findings emphasize the need for improved public health and policy support to address affordability and service gaps, ultimately maximizing HPV vaccination rates among MSM in China [3].
Factors Related to Vaccination Intention
Previous research conducted in 2022, explored factors related to HPV vaccination intention among MSM in China using a Bayesian Network Model. This research highlighted that accepting HPV vaccination is a crucial factor in promoting vaccine uptake within this high-risk population [4].
These studies collectively demonstrate a positive outlook for HPV vaccination programs in China, particularly among men and underscore the importance of tailored strategies to address specific needs and knowledge gaps within different demographic groups.