CNBC TV18
By Priyanka Deshpande
Published Feb 2, 2024
Cervical cancer ranks as the 2nd most prevalent cancer among women in India, constituting nearly 18% of newly diagnosed cancer cases, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the cancer agency of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Emphasising on preventive healthcare, FM Nirmala Sitharaman in her Budget speech on Feb 1 announced a vaccination drive targeting girls aged 9 to 14 years to combat cervical cancer. Here’s all you need to know about the disease and the vaccine.
Human papillomavirus or HPV is the main cause of most of the cervical cancer cases around the world.
Cervical cancer symptoms include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge.
There are several methods of prevention of cervical cancer, but prevention by vaccination is emerging as the most effective option.
Currently, two HPV vaccines are available in India – Serum Institute's Cervavac and Merck’s Gardasil 4.
Cervavac, a made-in-India vaccine, is available in the private market for about Rs 2,000 per dose while Gardasil 4 is priced at Rs 3,927 per dose, the PTI reported.
Vaccine is generally given to adolescent girls and boys between the age of 9 and 14, but can be taken up to the age of 45 years with consultation as the vaccine efficacy is maximum before sexual exposure.
Common side effects include mild pain and swelling at the injection site. No serious adverse events related to the vaccine have been reported.
If the vaccine is taken in the recommended age group, there is around a 90% chance of preventing cervical cancer. Post vaccine screening at regular intervals can make it negligible.
DISCLAIMER: THIS IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE. PLEASE CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL HEALTHCARE EXPERT FOR ANY MEDICAL CONDITION.
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