India Strengthens HPV Vaccination Drive to Curb Cervical Cancer

Current Affairs National

Posted by newadmin on 2025-04-09 08:45:59 | Last Updated by newadmin on 2025-07-29 17:39:06

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The Government of India is ramping up its efforts to fight cervical cancer through an expanded Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme. As announced in the 2024 interim budget, the Union Health Ministry is focusing on vaccinating girls aged 9 to 14 and enhancing the capacity of frontline healthcare workers to implement the programme effectively.

HPV is a group of over 200 viruses, with types 16 and 18 responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases. The virus, often asymptomatic, is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide. Persistent infection can lead to serious health issues, including cervical, vulvar, vaginal, and anal cancers.

In India, two main HPV vaccines are available: Gardasil 4 (MSD Pharmaceuticals) and Cervavac (Serum Institute of India). These vaccines protect against key cancer-causing HPV types, with Gardasil 9 offering broader protection. Administered ideally between ages 9 to 26, the vaccine is most effective before exposure to the virus.

India bears a heavy burden, accounting for 25% of global cervical cancer cases, with around 80,000 new cases and 35,000 deaths annually. To address this, the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) has recommended integrating the HPV vaccine into the Universal Immunisation Programme.

With increased training, public awareness campaigns, and a focus on single-dose administration, the government aims to significantly reduce cervical cancer rates and improve women’s health outcomes nationwide.

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