The quadrivalent HPV vaccine, developed in India, is affordable and more effective for cervical cancer, said Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh on Tuesday.
Cervical cancer ranks as the second most prevalent cancer in India
and accounts for nearly one-fourth of the world’s cervical cancer deaths
despite being largely preventable.
“Quadrivalent HPV vaccine is a boon for the Indian population
where mortality among women due cervical cancer is reported to be around one
lakh annually, and over 90 per cent of these women have a history of HPV
infection,” Singh said, at the Health Conclave organised by NDTV at Hotel
Hyatt.
Singh announced India’s first indigenously developed vaccine,
“CERVAVAC” for the prevention of cervical cancer in September 2022.
CERVAVAC, developed by the Department of Biotechnology in the
Ministry of Science and Technology “is unique because of being quadrivalent and
thus being highly effective HPV 6,11 and 16,18 which are closely associated
with cervical cancer in women,” Singh noted.
Further, Singh “strongly” advocated the use of the HPV vaccine,
and noted that “its administration is easy with recommended two-dose regimen
for girls below the age of 15 years and a three-dose regimen for girls above 15
years of age”.
The Minister also highlighted India’s advancements in preventive
healthcare, women’s health, and indigenous vaccine development during his
address at the "Together Against HPV" conclave.
The event focused on the national fight against cervical cancer,
which remains a significant health challenge. The Minister also stated that
India is now recognised globally for its preventive healthcare initiatives.
The Minister reiterated that prioritising women’s health is
central to realising India’s vision for 2047, underscoring women-led
development as a national priority. He also addressed the need to tackle taboos
and stigma associated with diseases like cervical cancer, particularly in rural
areas.
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