Cervical Cancer Claims Over 70,000 Indian Lives Every Year: Expert Provides Insight on the Importance of HPV Vaccine for Girls | – Times of India

The tragic passing of actor Poonam Pandey has left many in shock. As stated in a social media post by her manager, the 32-year-old actor from Kanpur lost her battle with cervical cancer. Pandey was widely recognized as a model and reality TV personality.
Her demise has brought attention to the pressing issue of cervical cancer. On February 1, in the Union Budget, the government announced its support for promoting vaccination against cervical cancer for girls aged 9 to 14. Cervical cancer is a prevalent form of cancer among women in India. Lack of awareness and a large population of susceptible women contribute to the high prevalence of this deadly disease in India.

Given the growing concern about cervical cancer, Dr. Amit Verma, Founder and Director of the Dr. AV Cancer Institute in Gurgaon, highlights the crucial necessity for every girl in India to receive the HPV vaccine.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a commonly contracted sexually transmitted infection that affects both genders, with young girls reaping significant benefits from the essential HPV vaccine. This pre-emptive measure plays a pivotal role in safeguarding their health and preventing the potential development of cervical cancer—an imminent threat to women’s overall well-being.
Understanding HPV and its risks
HPV infections, transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact, are prevalent. While many clear up on their own, certain high-risk strains can lead to serious health issues, with cervical cancer being the most concerning. Cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer in women globally, and third most common in women in India, underscoring the pivotal role of preventing HPV infection to reduce the incidence of this potentially life-threatening disease.The importance of the HPV vaccine

The HPV vaccine is an influential weapon in the battle against cervical cancer. Offered in two or three doses, depending on the specific vaccine, this pre-emptive measure is most effective when administered prior to any sexual activity. Let’s explore several compelling reasons why every young girl should contemplate receiving the HPV vaccine:
Prevention of cervical cancer: The primary advantage of the HPV vaccine is its role in averting cervical cancer. By targeting the most prevalent high-risk HPV strains responsible for cervical cancer, the vaccine significantly diminishes the risk of developing this potentially fatal disease.
Early immunization is critical: The vaccine is most effective when administered prior to any sexual activity, as it shields against the targeted HPV strains before exposure occurs. Immunizing girls at a young age ensures they are protected against the virus and lowers the risk of developing related complications later in life.
Herd immunity: When a substantial portion of the population is vaccinated, it yields a phenomenon known as herd immunity. This not only safeguards those who have been vaccinated but also aids in reducing the overall prevalence of HPV in the community, indirectly protecting unvaccinated individuals.Reduced emotional and financial burden: A cervical cancer diagnosis not only poses physical health challenges but also brings emotional and financial burdens. The emotional toll of dealing with a potentially fatal disease and the financial strain of medical treatments can be overwhelming. The HPV vaccine offers a proactive and cost-effective approach to avoiding these hardships.
Extended protection: The HPV vaccine not only shields against cervical cancer but also helps prevent other HPV-related cancers, such as vulvar, vaginal, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. By receiving the vaccine, young girls are investing in their long-term health and diminishing the risk of multiple HPV-associated diseases.
Global impact: HPV is a global health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. Encouraging young girls to receive the vaccine signifies a collective effort to lessen the global burden of HPV-related diseases, contributing to the overall enhancement of women’s health on a global scale.
Early signs of Cervical cancer women often miss
In conclusion, the HPV vaccine is an essential tool in the prevention of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. Every young girl should contemplate receiving this vaccine as a proactive measure to safeguard her health and well-being. By doing so, not only is she investing in her future, but she also contributes to the larger goal of diminishing the global impact of HPV-related diseases. Empowering young girls through vaccination is a crucial step in promoting a healthier and more resilient generation of women.

Author: OpenAI