Chennai – Gynaecologists at a recent medical forum in Chennai are intensifying calls for expanded HPV vaccination, stressing its vital role not only in preventing cervical cancer but also other HPV-linked malignancies. Persistent infection by high-risk human papillomavirus types 16 and 18 are known to cause the majority of cervical and several anogenital cancers.

Dr. S. Raman, a lead oncologist, highlighted alarming figures: India reports over 1.23 lakh new cervical cancer cases annually, resulting in more than 77,000 deaths. He emphasized that while HPV vaccination for girls aged 9–14 is gradually gaining traction, a gender-neutral approach—extending immunization to boys—could significantly disrupt HPV transmission and further reduce cancer rates.

The recently developed indigenous vaccine, Cervavac, priced affordably and included in the Universal Immunization Programme, offers a promising opportunity to scale up national coverage. Medical experts advocate coupling vaccination with regular cervical screening, such as Pap smears, to detect precancerous changes early.

Speaking to The Hindu, Dr. Raman urged community education initiatives to dispel myths, promote routine vaccination and screenings, and bridge access disparities. “Preventive strategies—including a two-dose HPV schedule and periodic smear tests—can substantially reduce cancer burden,” he said .