This January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s a vital time for action in India. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI) are joining forces to fight cervical cancer. Their main goal is to boost vaccination rates and enhance training for doctors.
As part of this initiative, there’s a new one-year training program for over 50,000 physicians from smaller cities across India. These doctors will learn from FOGSI experts, gaining the skills they need to effectively address cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is a major health issue in India, causing about 77,348 deaths each year. Impressively, India alone accounts for 25% of global cervical cancer deaths. It’s clear that stronger measures are urgently needed, particularly in promoting the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, which is essential for prevention.
This program was announced at the All India Congress of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (AICOG) conference in Mumbai. It focuses not only on vaccination but also on educating general physicians, gynecologists, and pediatricians about the importance of the HPV vaccine. These healthcare providers will play a crucial role in overcoming vaccine hesitancy and supporting the vision of a ‘Cervical Cancer Mukt Bharat’ (Cervical Cancer Free India).
The training will include clear, evidence-based guidelines to help doctors confidently recommend the HPV vaccine. By equipping them with the right knowledge, the initiative aims to protect adolescent girls from cervical cancer through vaccination.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer occurs in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. Almost all cases (99%) are linked to high-risk types of HPV, a common virus spread through sexual contact. While many HPV infections go away on their own, persistent infections can lead to cancer.
Globally, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. In 2022 alone, around 660,000 women were diagnosed, and nearly 350,000 died from it. However, through effective vaccination and regular screening, most cases can be prevented.
The program has solid backing from the Cancer Foundation of India and the American Cancer Society, ensuring top-quality standards. Dr. Priya Ganesh Kumar, the National Convenor of the HPV Program, emphasizes the need for more doctors to promote HPV vaccination as a safe and effective cancer prevention measure.
The IMA’s national president, Dilip Bhanushali, stressed the importance of empowering doctors with accurate information to boost awareness and vaccination rates. “This mission aims to protect Indian girls from cervical cancer,” he stated.
Cervical cancer can be eliminated globally by immunizing 90% of girls aged 9 to 14 against HPV. The HPV vaccine has shown high effectiveness in preventing the infections that lead to cervical cancer. FOGSI president Sunita Tandulwadkar emphasized that vaccinating against HPV is crucial in this battle, saying, “We will keep pushing until we reach our shared goal.”
This initiative not only boosts HPV vaccine recommendations but also positions healthcare providers as key advocates in their communities. It marks a significant move towards enhancing the national HPV vaccination program, securing a healthier future for generations in India.
Published – January 15, 2025 05:24 pm IST
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