Everything you need to know about Cervical Cancer

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 Roadmap for Combating Cervical Cancer 


This year, in 2024, Union Finance Minister of India, Nirmala Sitaraman announced the government’s plans to focus on vaccination against cervical cancer for girls aged 9 to 14 as part of her Interim Budget 2024.

So in this article we will talk about cervical cancer, and understand why this is an important issue.

What is cervical cancer?


Cervical cancer starts in the cervix, the gateway to the uterus. Caused by persistent infection with certain human papillomavirus (HPV) strains, it's largely preventable through vaccination and regular screening. Early stages often have no symptoms, but later might include abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain. Thankfully, cervical cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Regular Pap tests and HPV screenings are crucial for early detection and successful treatment, making prevention and awareness key in the fight against this disease.

How common is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer ranks as the 2nd most prevalent cancers in India despite being largely preventable. Globally nearly 1 in every 4 deaths due to cervical cancer takes place in India. Thus, it is important for India to take steps for the prevention of this cancer.


What is HPV?


HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus, and it's the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Here's a quick rundown:

Types: There are over 200 types of HPV, but around 40 types can infect the genital area.

Transmission: Primarily spread through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

Symptoms: Most infections have no symptoms and clear on their own. In some cases, it can cause:
Genital warts: painless bumps or lumps around the genitals.
Cancer: Persistent high-risk HPV infections can contribute to various cancers, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and some head and throat cancers.
Prevention: HPV vaccines are highly effective in preventing infections and associated health problems. Safe sex practices like using condoms consistently can also help reduce transmission risk.

Diagnosis: Pap smears and HPV tests can detect abnormal cell changes or the presence of the virus.

Treatment: While there's no cure for HPV itself, treatments address symptoms and complications like warts and precancerous cells.


Does India have any vaccines available for cervical cancer?

Currently, two HPV vaccines are available in the Indian market: the Indian-made Cervavac and Gardasil.

What is cervavac?

Cervavac, a landmark development, is India's first indigenously made quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. This vaccine aims to prevent cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer among women globally. It works by protecting against four specific HPV strains (6, 11, 16, and 18) responsible for roughly 70% of cervical cancer cases. Developed by the Serum Institute of India, Cervavac offers a potentially more affordable and accessible option compared to existing HPV vaccines. This could be crucial in combating cervical cancer, especially in regions with limited healthcare resources. It holds significant promise for reducing the burden of cervical cancer in India and beyond.  

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