Following the Finance Minister’s request to vaccinate girls aged 9 to 14 against cervical cancer, it’s clear we need to spread awareness and take preventive actions. Cervical cancer silently harms women worldwide, causing tragic loss of lives. In this article, we’ll discuss cervical cancer and praise the Government’s choice to make sure all young girls get vaccinated against HPV in the interim budget, which lowers their risk of cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer, arising in the cells of the cervix, is a formidable foe affecting women worldwide. In India, it constitutes a significant 16.5 per cent of total cancer cases in women, with a higher prevalence in the age group of 35 to 40 years. Early detection significantly improves survival rates. As per IARC, the cancer is ranked as the eighth most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide and stood as the ninth principal cause of cancer-related mortality, with 661,044 new cases and 348,186 deaths.
HPV vaccination is most effective when administered before any potential exposure to the virus. Since the vaccine is preventive rather than therapeutic, providing it to girls aged 9 to 14 ensures that they build immunity, offering optimal protection. Vaccinating at this age allows for the highest efficacy, approximately 80 per cent, in preventing HPV infection and subsequent complications, including cervical cancer. However, it is important to also note that vaccination alone may not eliminate all risk of contracting this disease.
Between 2014 and 2016, an NGO in Delhi administered a substantial number of vaccinations to girls, which yielded no discernible effects or results. Therefore, relying solely on vaccinations is insufficient. Instead, prioritizing maximum awareness through practices such as maintaining a balanced diet and, crucially, undergoing regular screenings for early detection and preventive measures is essential.
Types of Cervical Cancer: –
Two primary types, Adenocarcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma, define cervical cancer, emphasizing the complexity of this disease.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer: –
The importance of recognizing symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain and fatigue cannot be overstated, as early detection is pivotal for successful treatment.
Causes of Cervical Cancer: –
Various factors contribute to cervical cancer, including age, sexually transmitted diseases, HPV infection and lifestyle choices.
Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer: –
Timely and accurate diagnosis through methods like Pap smear, biopsy and imaging techniques is crucial for devising effective treatment plans.
Treatment for Cervical Cancer: –
A range of interventions, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy can provide hope for patients with cervical cancer.
The Government’s decision to prioritize HPV vaccination for girls at an early age is an important stride towards preventing this silent killer. Let us collectively champion awareness, regular screenings and vaccination to ensure that cervical cancer becomes a chapter in history rather than a present-day tragedy. Together, we can forge a path to a future where cervical cancer is but a distant memory.
By Prof Dr Raj Nagarkar, Managing Director, Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic services, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre & Hospitals
Leave a comment