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HPV Awareness Day

An awareness observance on March 4 promoting global knowledge of human papillomavirus (HPV), its prevention through vaccination and screening, and management of HPV-related cancers and diseases.

Thursday

March 2027

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMarch 4

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

ORIGIN

Institutional Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY

International Papillomavirus Society (IPVS)

FIRST OBSERVED

2017

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

The International Papillomavirus Society (IPVS) proclaimed March 4 as International HPV Awareness Day, with the official announcement made at the HPV2017 Conference in Cape Town on March 4, 2017. The first observance was on March 4, 2018, to promote awareness of HPV infection, prevention, and management.

Institutional Recordvia ipvsoc.org

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

March 4th is HPV Awareness Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). This virus is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world and can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. While there is no cure for HPV, there are a number of ways you can reduce your risk of infection or help prevent it from spreading. On this day, let's come together to spread knowledge about HPV and how to protect ourselves from it!

TIMELINE

HPV Awareness Day Timeline

HPV Identified

Harald zur Hausen discovered that Human Papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer, earning him a Nobel Prize in 2008.

HPV Test Invented

The HPV Test was invented, able to detect several high-risk types of the virus, offering an advance over traditional Pap smears.

HPV Vaccine Approved

Gardasil, the first vaccine to prevent cervical cancer and other diseases caused by certain types of HPV, was approved by the FDA.

Cervarix Approved

Cervarix, the second cervical cancer vaccine, was approved by the FDA, which protects against HPV types 16 and 18.

Extended Vaccination Recommendations

The CDC started recommending the HPV vaccination for adults up to age 45 and for boys, in addition to girls.

First HPV Awareness Day

The first International HPV Awareness Day was officially held on March 4 to generate public awareness about the virus and its associated diseases.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate HPV Awareness Day

Share informative resources

Share informative resources on social media that educate your followers on the risk of HPV and the importance of getting vaccinated.

ATTEND

Attend a local event

Check out your local event listings to see if there are any HPV Awareness Day events happening near you. Support the cause and raise awareness by attending these events.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraiser

Organize a fundraiser in your community to raise money for HPV awareness initiatives, such as research studies or educational campaigns.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer

Look for volunteer opportunities in your area that focus on raising awareness about HPV and promoting vaccine initiatives.

SPEAK

Speak out

Use the power of your voice to spread the word about the importance of HPV awareness. Talk to your family, friends, and colleagues about the risks associated with HPV and encourage them to get vaccinated.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why HPV Awareness Day is Important

Knowledge leads to prevention

By educating ourselves about HPV, we can help prevent its spread and decrease our risk of serious health complications. Raising awareness on this virus and discussing ways to protect ourselves can make all the difference in controlling its spread.

HPV is a very common infection

Human Papillomavirus, or HPV, is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the world. It affects both men and women, and it’s estimated that nearly 80% of people will contract it at some point in their lives.

HPV can cause cancer

Some types of HPV can lead to cervical cancer as well as cancers of the penis, anus, mouth and throat. It’s incredibly important to recognize the signs and symptoms of HPV and to seek early treatment if necessary.