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

Objective: To evaluate the coverage and compliance of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine in Paris. Methods: We 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. Results: The 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. Conclusion: Coverage 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. (C) 2010 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. All rights reserved.