Venezuela Fails to Deliver on HPV Vaccine Promises and Lacks Adequate Sex Education, Experts Warn of Consequences

PUTUCUAL, Venezuela (AP) — In a small medical clinic in eastern Venezuela, a group of women and teenage girls gathered to learn about contraceptives and HPV, the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world. The community health worker leading the session taught them how to use IUDs, condoms, and birth control pills correctly, while also discussing the importance of HPV prevention.

Despite the prevalence of HPV and its link to cervical cancer, many of the participants had limited knowledge about the virus and its potential consequences. Only one out of the group of 10 had learned about HPV in school, while the rest relied on information from friends or cousins. None were aware of the existence of HPV vaccines, which are recommended for all children starting at age 9.

Venezuela’s government has repeatedly failed to provide free HPV vaccines, leaving many young women at risk. With public-sector workers earning meager wages and private clinics charging high prices for the vaccine, access to HPV prevention is limited for most Venezuelans. The lack of awareness and resources has contributed to a high rate of HPV infections in the country, with estimates suggesting that 30% of Venezuelan women are affected by cancer-causing strains of the virus.

Health care professionals are calling for increased education and access to HPV vaccines to protect the population from the risks associated with the virus. Despite past promises and agreements with global health organizations, Venezuela has yet to effectively address the issue of HPV prevention. As the government continues to struggle with economic challenges and political instability, the health and well-being of its citizens, particularly young women, remain at risk.