India Launches Nationwide HPV Vaccination Drive to Combat Cervical Cancer Burden Among Young Girls
India has introduced a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program for girls aged 14 to combat the high incidence of cervical cancer. Following WHO recommendations, the program will deploy a single-dose vaccine at designated government health facilities. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Indian women, with the country contributing over 65% of the burden in the South-East Asia Region. The editorial stresses the importance of post-vaccination observation, maintaining a robust cold chain, and ensuring transparent reporting of adverse events (AEFI) to overcome anti-vaccination sentiments and historical trial concerns.
Key Points
- HPV types 16 and 18 account for more than 80% of cervical cancer cases in India.
- Cervical cancer is largely preventable through HPV vaccination and regular screening if detected early.
- The South-East Asia Region (SEARO) has the second-highest cervical cancer incidence globally, with India being the primary contributor.
- A single-dose vaccine regimen is now recommended by the World Health Organization for widespread deployment.
Exam Facts
- India recorded an estimated 127,526 new cases and 79,906 deaths from cervical cancer in 2022.
- Only 1.9% of Indian women aged 30-49 are currently covered by national screening programs.
- AEFI stands for Adverse Events Following Immunisation.
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