High Risk of Cervical Cancer Among Indian Women

February 2, 2024

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer affecting women in India. Each year, over 120,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and over 75,000 die from the disease. Cervical cancer ranks as the second most frequent cancer among women in India.

Cause of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is often caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection. If HPV persists in the body for years, it can cause changes in the cervical cells that may lead to cancer. Women with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV, are at higher risk of cervical cancer.

Need for Cervical Cancer Vaccine

India has over 500 million women aged 15 and above who are at risk of cervical cancer. Vaccination against HPV can help prevent cervical cancer. The National Technical Advisory Group for Immunization (NTAGI) recommended HPV vaccination for girls aged 9-14 under the Universal Immunization Programme in 2022.

Cervical Cancer Vaccines Available in India

Currently, Merck’s HPV vaccine Gardasil and Serum Institute of India’s indigenous vaccine CERVAVAC are available in the Indian market. Gardasil is priced at around Rs. 10,850 per dose while CERVAVAC costs around Rs. 2,000 per dose. In 2023, India rolled out CERVAVAC nationally in partnership with DBT and BIRAC.

Government’s Move to Support HPV Vaccination

In the 2024 budget speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced an initiative to promote HPV vaccination for girls aged 9-14 years. The aim is to vaccinate this age group against cervical cancer and save over 125,000 lives annually. The budget signals the government’s intent to strengthen the cervical cancer immunization program across the country.

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