Keep it wholesome: On shaping a national cervical cancer control programme

Syllabus: GS-III

Subject: Science and Technology

Topic: Medical science and Health

Issue: Vaccine Administration in India

Context: vaccination against cervical cancer

cervical cancer

• As per World Health Organization, cervical cancer is primarily (99%) caused by HPV infection.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus transmitted through sexual contact.
• Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Indian women (15 to 44 years) (over 77,000 deaths annually).
• Simple diagnostic tests like VIA and VILI can detect cervical cancer easily at early stage.
• Cryotherapy can effectively treat abnormal growths.

Challenges in India:

• Low screening of cervical cancer in India (under 2%) creates concern in its treatment.
• As the Government is planning for a vaccination programs, the program should be complemented with mandatory screening and treatment at primary health centers.
• A comprehensive national cervical cancer control program accessible to all women is necessary to prevent deaths.