Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant reduction in the price of HPV vaccines in China, highlighting the transition from high costs to more accessible options, and the inclusion of HPV vaccines in the national immunization program, which marks a major step towards public health improvement [6][33]. Group 1: HPV Vaccine Market Dynamics - In 2022, China reported 156,000 new cervical cancer cases, with nearly 60,000 deaths, accounting for about 20% of global totals [6]. - The HPV vaccine, particularly the nine-valent version, has been in high demand despite its high price, which was around 6,300 yuan for a three-dose package in 2021 [9][11]. - The vaccination rate for girls aged 9-14 in China was only 4% in 2022, significantly lower than the global average of 61.6% [11]. Group 2: Price Reduction and Accessibility - The introduction of free HPV vaccinations in certain regions, such as the Ordos region, has led to a dramatic increase in vaccination rates, reaching over 85% for girls aged 13-18 by the end of 2020 [15][20]. - By 2022, the price for a three-dose HPV vaccine in Beijing community hospitals dropped to 1,062 yuan, averaging 354 yuan per dose, which is half the price compared to earlier years [21]. - The first domestically produced HPV vaccine, priced at 329 yuan per dose, was launched in late 2019, significantly undercutting the prices of imported vaccines [26]. Group 3: Policy and Public Health Impact - The Chinese National Health Commission announced the inclusion of the HPV vaccine in the national immunization program, prioritizing coverage for girls aged 9-14 [33]. - The drastic price reduction and increased availability of HPV vaccines are expected to address health inequalities, particularly in rural and western regions of China where cervical cancer rates are higher [25][32]. - The article emphasizes that the focus should be on widespread vaccination rather than the perfection of vaccine types, highlighting the importance of accessibility in public health initiatives [18].
36氪精选——HPV疫苗:我们为什么等了近20年才免费?