Human papillomavirus vaccination and screening in GCC countries: Review of current status, challenges, and future directions

Abstract

Cervical cancer remains a preventable yet significant public health challenge, particularly in regions where access to Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and screening is limited. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries comprising; Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman, have shown notable progress in introducing HPV vaccination; however, implementation remains inconsistent and coverage rates are suboptimal. Despite their economic capacity, most GCC states lack population-based cervical cancer screening programs, relying instead on opportunistic screening largely limited to married women. Cultural and religious sensitivities surrounding sexually transmitted infections contribute to stigma, delayed diagnosis, and low public engagement. While countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE have issued national guidelines and incorporated HPV vaccination into school-based programs, others such as Oman and Bahrain still face significant gaps in both policy and the public health infrastructure needed to support organized HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening programs. Screening strategies remain outdated or poorly implemented, with few countries adopting HPV-DNA testing. Sociocultural barriers, particularly the association of cervical cancer risk with marital status, continue to limit equitable access to preventive services. Promising approaches to improve uptake include the adoption of HPV self-sampling, school-based immunization, and integration of HPV vaccination into premarital health checks. Addressing these systemic and cultural challenges is essential for the GCC to align with global cervical cancer elimination goals and ensure broader protection for at-risk populations.