Kazakhstan considers HPV vaccine for boys
Lawmakers urge health ministry to expand access, citing cancer risks from human papillomavirus affecting both sexes
ASTANA, Kazakhstan (MNTV) — Lawmakers in Kazakhstan are calling on the government to expand the national HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccination program to include boys, warning that the virus poses serious health risks to all genders.
As reported by The Times of Central Asia, the proposal was led by Askhat Aimagambetov, a member of the Mazhilis, the lower house of Kazakhstan’s parliament. Aimagambetov and several colleagues submitted a formal request to the Ministry of Health, reflecting growing concerns among parents.
“Currently, girls in Kazakhstan receive free HPV vaccinations — a major step that saves thousands of lives,” Aimagambetov wrote on his Telegram channel. “But HPV is not a ‘female virus.’ It can also cause cancers of the larynx, mouth, and rectum — including in men.”
He noted that many countries now vaccinate boys alongside girls and urged the government to ensure broader access. “The vaccine remains largely unavailable in pharmacies. The state must guarantee availability for anyone who wants it. Boys are also at risk,” he added.
Health Minister Akmaral Alnazaraeva has stated that the ministry is reviewing whether to expand eligibility to include boys and adults.
Kazakhstan began offering voluntary HPV vaccination to 11-year-old girls in September 2023 as part of its cervical cancer prevention efforts.
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