Overview
- Cervical cancer, caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), is among the leading causes of cancer in Indian women.
- HPV is responsible for 99.7% of cervical cancers globally.
- The HPV vaccine is highly effective, preventing over 90% of HPV-related cancers.
Relevance : GS 2(Health , Governance)
Current Situation in India
- The HPV vaccine is available only via private practitioners, though NTAGI has recommended its inclusion in the national immunisation programme.
- Some states, such as Punjab and Sikkim, have incorporated the vaccine into their immunisation schedules.
- Recommended: Routine vaccination for girls at 9 years and a catch-up for those aged 9–14.
Benefits of the HPV Vaccine
- Prevents cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, penile, and throat cancers caused by HPV.
- Effective for both genders, offering protection against genital warts and HPV-related cancers.
- Safe for immunocompromised individuals, including those with HIV.
- Vaccines approved in India:
- Gardasil: Quadrivalent (HPV-6, 11, 16, 18)
- Cervarix: Bivalent
- Cervavac: India-made, targets HPV-16 and 18.
Statistics on Cervical Cancer in India
- 3rd most common cancer among women.
- Accounts for 18.3% of all cancer cases and 9.1% of cancer deaths in women (GLOBOCAN 2020).
- High prevalence in areas like Arunachal Pradesh (Papumpare district).
Challenges
- Cost:
- Gardasil 9: ₹10,850/dose.
- Gardasil 4: ₹2,000–₹4,000/dose.
- Cervavac: ₹2,000/dose.
- Awareness: Limited understanding of its importance.
- Cultural Factors: Stigma around reproductive health impacts acceptance.
Recommendations
- Universal inclusion of the HPV vaccine in the national immunisation programme.
- Promote awareness campaigns to address cultural and knowledge gaps.
- Encourage vaccination for all genders to broaden HPV prevention.
- Focus on vaccinating individuals before exposure (ideally 9–26 years).
Call to Action
The inclusion of the HPV vaccine in India’s immunisation programme would be a significant step toward reducing the cervical cancer burden. However, affordability, awareness, and systemic challenges must be addressed to achieve this goal.
