Vaccination campaign to prevent cervical cancer begins in state

Shillong, Feb 28: The state government on Saturday launched the National Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination Campaign at Ganesh Das Hospital here in alignment with the National Launch by the Prime Minister of India at Rajasthan.

The vaccine can be taken at any government-run health facility for free across the State. Beneficiaries once received this vaccine can also get the UWIN Certificate from the UWIN App.

Cervical cancer remains one of the most serious public health challenges affecting women in India. It is the second most common cancer among women in the country.

In 2024 alone, India recorded an estimated 78,499 new cases and over 42,000 deaths due to cervical cancer.

Meghalaya reported a total of 332 diagnosed cases of cervical cancer, with numbers rising from 27 cases in 2020-21. The upward trend underscores the urgent need for preventive measures, such as HPV vaccination.

Scientific evidence shows that 99.7% of cervical cancer cases are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

In India, HPV types 16 and 18 account for the majority of cases. The HPV vaccine is safe, effective, and provides strong protection against these high-risk virus types. Globally, more than 500 million (50 crore) doses have been administered without major safety concerns.

Under the statewide campaign, girls aged 14 years (those who have completed 14 years but have not yet turned 15 years) are being covered, with an estimated 39,000 eligible beneficiaries across Meghalaya.

Vaccination is being conducted at 187 planning units, including Primary Health Centres, Community Health Centres and District Hospitals. To ensure safe and effective implementation, more than 9,121 trained health personnel—comprising doctors, nurses, ANMs and ASHA workers—have been deployed across the State.