Argus News - Odisha Intensifies HPV Vaccination Drive for adolescent Girls

Bhubaneswar, Mar 2: Odisha government has intensified its Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme starting Monday, aiming to protect adolescent girls against cervical cancer.

The campaign is being rolled out across all districts, with vaccination available at district headquarters hospitals, sub-divisional hospitals, community health centres, and higher primary health centres.

Girls aged 14 to 15 years, or their guardians, can register for the vaccine through the CoWIN portal. Registration requires uploading Aadhaar card details and age proof. Once documents are submitted, an OTP will be generated to complete the process. After registration, beneficiaries can proceed to receive the vaccine. Alternatively, registration can also be done directly at hospitals before vaccination.

Also Read: Gynaecologist Dr Sujata Kar Calls HPV Vaccine ‘Critical Preventive Tool’ as India Targets Cervical Cancer Elimination

On Sunday, 647 adolescent girls received the HPV vaccine in Odisha. In the first phase, approximately 3.36 lakh girls aged 14 to 15 years will be vaccinated within three months. After this initial phase, the programme will expand to cover other age groups of adolescent girls and women.

The HPV vaccine is being provided to protect against cervical cancer, a major health concern among women. The state health department has emphasized that the vaccine is a preventive measure, aiming to reduce future risks and safeguard women’s health.

 
What is ‘Cervical Cancer’?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to a female’s private part. It usually develops slowly, starting with abnormal cell changes known as dysplasia. If untreated, these abnormal cells can become cancerous and spread deeper into the cervix and nearby tissues.

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

The primary cause is persistent infection with certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV). Cervical cancer is largely preventable through HPV vaccination and regular screening, and it can often be cured if detected early. Globally, it remains one of the most common cancers among women.