Indian Women's Guide to Cervical Cancer Prevention

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Highlights:

• India's move to include the cervical cancer vaccine in the universal immunization program for girls aged nine to 14 is a positive step
• Cervical cancer is a significant health concern for Indian women, ranking as the second-most common cancer
• Cervical cancer can be prevented through HPV vaccination, effective screening, and early diagnosis

Cervical cancer, the second-most common cancer among Indian women, has claimed several lives. With a staggering 1,23,907 new cases and 77,348 deaths in 2022, India bears a significant burden of this disease (1^✔). However, recent developments, including the government's plan to include the cervical cancer vaccine in the universal immunization program, bring a ray of hope.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer primarily targets middle-aged women, and its prevalence is influenced by factors like persistent high-risk HPV infection, low socioeconomic conditions, compromised immunity, and smoking. Despite its severity, cervical cancer is preventable and highly curable when detected early (2^✔). A crucial aspect is the extended pre-invasive phase, lasting 10-15 years, providing a unique opportunity for early detection and intervention.

Cervical Cancer Vaccine

The imminent inclusion of the cervical cancer vaccine in the universal immunization program is a monumental step. HPV vaccination for girls in the nine to 14 age group is projected to commence this year. Early vaccination not only prevents the initiation and progression of cervical cancer but also contributes to a reduction in mortality rates.

‘India plans to include cervical cancer vaccine in the universal immunization program. With high cervical cancer rates, preventive measures like HPV vaccination and screening are vital for women's health. #CervicalCancerAwareness #PreventCervicalCancer #medindia’

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