How to protect young girls from ‘Cervical Cancer’

Current data from the National Cancer Registry Program (NCRP) in India indicates that the most common sites of cancer among women in India are breasts and the cervix.   

Cervical cancer is a disease that affects the lives of thousands of women worldwide. It originates in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. The cancer starts in the surface cells of the cervix and can spread tothe deeper tissue and other parts of the body if left untreated. This is a serious disease that requires early detection and treatment to ensure the best possible outcome. 

Cervical cancer is mostly associated with human papillomavirus (HPV), an infection that can be transmitted sexually and also through the skin to skin contact. Cervical cancer is increasing worldwide and can be reduced just by administering the HPV Vaccine. It works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that can fight off HPV infections & has between  90 - 100% protection against cervical cancer, vulvar vaginal cancer and genital warts.  

What does the HPV Vaccine do?

  • Prevents Cancers: The vaccine protects against cancers caused by HPV, includingcervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and some throat cancers.
  • Prevents Genital Warts: It also protects against genital warts caused by HPV. 
  • Immune Response: The vaccine helps the body build immunity to certain strains of HPV, making it easier to clear the virus if exposed later

Who should get an HPV Vaccine?

The vaccine works best when it’s given at a young age, to girls and young women, before sexual activity begins and before exposure to HPV.  

  1. When given to young girls between 9 to 14 years, only 2 doses are required (second dose after 6 months) 
  2. When given to young women between 15 to 26 years, 3 doses are required (second & 3rd dose after1st & 6th months)
  3. Females age 27 to 45 years: Based on shared clinical decision-making (<45 years of age and before the first sexual encounter), 3 dose series as above.

When should HPV Vaccine be avoided? 

  • In case of Pregnancy 
  • If age is > 45 years 

How much does each Vaccine cost in India?

  • CERVAVAC – made by Serum Institute of India cost around 2,000/- each
  • GARDASIL – made by MSD Pharma cost around 4,000/- each  

Are there any side effects of taking the HPV Vaccine?

  • The most common side effects of the HPV vaccine are mild and usually go away quickly:
  • Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
  • Fever or feeling tired
  • Headache, muscle or joint pain
  • Nausea 

What to do next?

If you have a young girl between 9 to 26 years and would like to protect her from cancer of cervix, you can book her HPV vaccine shot with your doctor. The vaccine needs proper cold chain for storage therefore prior confirmation regarding the vaccine shot shall be required. 

Please call on 9780887036 & book the HPV Vaccine shot for your beloved daughter.

If you liked this article & find the information valuable please like & share this post with your friends & family so that they too can benefit from this information. 

Thanks & Regards, 

Dr Vinay Verma

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I am a senior Physician of Panchkula, with 33 years of clinical experience. I keep on sharing health related information, which may beuseful for everyone. This platform will help disseminate that knowledge.