"India Takes Major Leap in Preventive Healthcare with Launch of Affordable HPV Vaccine, Says Dr. Jitendra Singh"

2025-02-28

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, recently underscored India’s significant strides in preventive healthcare with the development of the affordable and highly effective Quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which aims to prevent cervical cancer. Speaking at the "Together Against HPV" Conclave in New Delhi, Dr. Singh praised the Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science and Technology for its pioneering role in developing this vaccine, which targets HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18, the primary causes of cervical cancer. He highlighted that this vaccine is both affordable and highly effective, positioning it as an invaluable tool for India’s healthcare system.

Dr. Singh emphasized that cervical cancer remains a major health issue in India, with around one lakh deaths annually, 90% of which are linked to HPV infections. He noted that nearly 450-500 million women in India are at risk, making the introduction of this indigenous vaccine a crucial intervention. The vaccine follows a two-dose regimen for girls under 15 years of age and a three-dose regimen for those above 15 years.

Acknowledging the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr. Singh credited the success of this vaccine, and other healthcare advancements, to initiatives like Mission Suraksha during the COVID-19 pandemic. He pointed out that the HPV vaccine represents a shift toward preventive healthcare in India, reflecting a broader cultural change in health awareness across the nation.

The Minister also called for a multi-sectoral approach to combat cervical cancer, urging collaboration between public and private sectors, NGOs, academic institutions, and healthcare delivery systems. He stressed the importance of awareness campaigns, early detection, and healthcare delivery, especially in rural and underserved areas, while addressing the social stigma surrounding diseases like cervical cancer.

Dr. Singh further highlighted the critical role of women’s health in India’s Vision 2047, emphasizing that women-led development and preventive healthcare are key to strengthening the nation’s future. He also noted India’s growing influence in global healthcare, showcasing the country’s leadership in medical technology and vaccine research. Dr. Singh concluded by calling for the integration of the HPV vaccine into India’s national immunization programs to ensure nationwide access and combat cervical cancer effectively.

The "Together Against HPV" Conclave provided a platform to reaffirm India’s commitment to women’s health and preventive care, with a focus on indigenous innovations like the Quadrivalent HPV vaccine, marking a transformative step in reducing the burden of cervical cancer and ensuring a healthier future for women across India.

Source: https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/3197621-indias-indigenous-quadrivalent-hpv-vaccine-a-major-breakthrough-in-preventing-cervical-cancer