Boosting Women's Health: Accelerating HPV Vaccine Integration in India

A Parliamentary panel urges the swift inclusion of the HPV vaccine in India's Universal Immunisation Programme to combat cervical cancer, urging expanded screening and awareness efforts. The panel stresses government-NGO collaborations and domestic production of health equipment to enhance healthcare delivery.

A Parliamentary panel has stressed the urgent integration of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into India's Universal Immunisation Programme to combat cervical cancer. This initiative is poised to enhance women's health outcomes by significantly reducing the disease's incidence.

The Committee on Petitions, Rajya Sabha, chaired by Narain Dass Gupta, emphasized this in a recent report, noting the HPV vaccine's effectiveness. The Union Budget 2024 has allotted resources for a phased vaccine introduction, focusing on girls aged 9-14 years. Despite recommendations, only Sikkim and Bihar have initiated the rollout, and nationwide inclusion is pending.

The panel also urged the enhancement of cancer screening programs, particularly in underserved regions, with tailored awareness campaigns. Involving NGOs in education efforts and training healthcare professionals were stressed. Additionally, the need for domestic production of health technology, like PET scan equipment, was highlighted to reduce costs and improve access.

(With inputs from agencies.)