Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is a cost-effective approach to reducing the burden of cervical cancer in low- and middle-income countries, according to a systematic review of the research.

• Low and middle-income countries have borne most of the burden of cervical cancer in the last decade.
• The high incidence of cervical cancer in these countries is largely the result of inadequate HPV vaccination, poverty, illiteracy, and inadequate or non-existent screening.
• 19 studies included in the current review found that lowering cost of HPV vaccination, either with or without Pap smear screening, is cost effective in countries that have a high incidence of cervical cancer.