ANALYSIS OF HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS (HPV) VACCINATION COVERAGE IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF PINHEIRO, MARANHÃO

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze vaccination coverage against human papillomavirus (HPV) in the municipality of Pinheiro, Maranhão, Brazil, from 2021 to 2025, considering its temporal evolution, distribution by sex and age group, and the number of unvaccinated individuals. This is a descriptive, retrospective study with a quantitative approach, conducted using secondary data obtained from the Immunization Program Evaluation System (API), comprising individuals aged 9 to 14 years. The data were organized into annual time series and analyzed using absolute and relative frequencies. The results showed a progressive increase in vaccination coverage throughout the analyzed period, with more pronounced growth beginning in 2023, reaching 55.52% in 2025. Higher vaccination coverage was observed among females in all analyzed years, although a gradual reduction in the difference compared to males was identified. Regarding age groups, a marked increase in coverage was observed among 9-year-old individuals, while intermediate age groups presented fluctuations throughout the historical series. The 13-year-old age group showed the highest coverage percentages during the analyzed period. Simultaneously, a reduction in the number of unvaccinated individuals was observed, although a significant contingent of non-immunized individuals still remains. It is concluded that, despite the advances observed, HPV vaccination coverage in the municipality remains below the targets recommended by the Brazilian Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization. The findings highlight the need to strengthen immunization strategies, with emphasis on early vaccination, expansion of access, educational actions, and interventions directed toward groups with lower vaccination coverage, aiming to improve epidemiological indicators and reduce health inequalities.