Argus News - Gynaecologist Dr Sujata Kar Calls HPV Vaccine ‘Critical Preventive Tool’ as India Targets Cervical Cancer Elimination

Bhubaneswar, Mar 2: India has rolled out a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign aimed at protecting adolescents -- particularly 14-year-old girls -- from cervical cancer, the second most common cancer among women, and other HPV-related cancers. The initiative aligns with the World Health Organization (WHO) goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem by 2030, which includes vaccinating 90% of girls before the age of 15.

Vaccines are being made available at government health centres across the country, strengthening preventive healthcare outreach and cancer awareness efforts.

Speaking on the initiative, Dr Sujata Kar, a renowned gynaecologist from Bhubaneswar, emphasised that HPV vaccination is among the most effective preventive tools against cervical and other HPV-related cancers.

“HPV vaccination is one of the safest and most effective ways to prevent cervical and other HPV-related cancers. The vaccine works best when given to adolescents before any exposure to the virus,” she said.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common viral infections transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact. While there are over 200 types of HPV, certain high-risk strains are responsible for nearly all cases of cervical cancer and are also linked to cancers of the vagina, vulva, penis, anus, and parts of the mouth and throat.

Also Read: Odisha Intensifies HPV Vaccination Drive for adolescent Girls

According to WHO data, HPV infection accounts for about 99% of cervical cancer cases globally, making vaccination a critical preventive intervention. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types can gradually lead to abnormal cellular changes, which may develop into cancer over time.

Dr Kar also highlighted that HPV is not limited to women alone.

“Boys and men can carry and transmit HPV and may develop cancers of the penis, anus, throat, and mouth due to high-risk HPV types. Vaccinating both girls and boys not only protects individuals but also reduces the overall spread of the virus,” she noted.

Health experts underline that widespread immunisation contributes to herd immunity, lowering overall virus transmission within communities.

Eligibility, Dosage and Availability

The HPV vaccine is available at government facilities, private hospitals, and vaccination centres. It is a preventive vaccine designed to protect against the most harmful HPV strains before infection occurs.

Key recommendations include:

Routinely recommended at 11–12 years (can begin as early as 9 years)

Advised for individuals up to 26 years if not vaccinated earlier

Adults aged 27–45 years may consider vaccination after medical consultation

Not recommended during pregnancy, though it can be taken after childbirth; no pregnancy test is required prior to vaccination

The vaccine is administered in two or three doses, depending on age and medical advice. In private healthcare settings, the approximate cost per dose is around Rs 3,927, though prices may vary.

Also Read: To Prevent Cervical Cancer, Odisha to Roll Out Free HPV Vaccine for Girls from Feb 28

Preventive Step Towards Cancer-Free Future

Medical professionals describe the HPV vaccine as a safe and evidence-based preventive measure that significantly reduces the long-term risk of several cancers. With increased awareness, accessibility, and early immunisation, public health authorities aim to substantially cut cervical cancer incidence in the coming decades.

Experts say informed decisions today could help build a future generation protected against preventable cancers.