A new cancer prevention report has found that smoking rates in the United States continue to decline, marking steady progress in reducing one of the leading causes of preventable cancer. However, the report also warns that HPV vaccination rates have stalled, raising concerns among public health experts.
According to the findings, fewer Americans are smoking than ever before, reflecting the impact of decades of public health campaigns, higher tobacco taxes, smoking bans, and increased awareness of health risks. The decline is expected to contribute to lower rates of lung cancer and other smoking-related diseases over time.
In contrast, progress in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination—a key tool in preventing several cancers—has slowed significantly. Health officials note that vaccination coverage among adolescents has plateaued in recent years, falling short of targets needed to maximize protection at the population level.
HPV is linked to multiple cancers, including cervical, throat, anal, and other cancers, many of which are preventable through vaccination. Experts warn that stagnant vaccination rates could limit future gains in cancer prevention.
The report highlights several factors behind the slowdown, including vaccine hesitancy, misinformation, gaps in healthcare access, and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Public health authorities are calling for renewed efforts to boost HPV vaccination, including expanded awareness campaigns, improved access to vaccines, and stronger recommendations from healthcare providers.
Experts say that while the continued drop in smoking is a major public health success, increasing HPV vaccination rates is essential to sustain long-term progress in reducing cancer burden across the United States.
