Cervical cancer: Should girls who aren't sexually active be vaccinated against HPV?

Cervical cancer affects women more frequently than any other cancer. A recent study that was published in The Lancet found that nearly 1 in every 4 cervical cancer fatalities worldwide occurred in India. Thereby, by the middle of 2023, the Indian government will begin to administer the CERVAVAC vaccine. 

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus that can cause cervical cancer. The cells present in the cervix, the portion of the uterus that is closest to the pelvis, is where cervical cancer grows.

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Early Symptoms: If identified early and treated appropriately, cervical cancer is both preventable and curable. The primary symptoms of cervical cancer include unusual or irregular bleeding, which happens between periods or after sexual activity. Additionally, the patient may notice blood stains with a bad odour and/or vaginal discharge.

Vital Vaccination: Healthcare professionals claim that the vaccination is 99% efficient in preventing cervical cancer when given to girls between the ages of 9 and 14, before sexual exposure. Additionally, the vaccine can guard against genital warts and cancers of the anal, vulval, vaginal, penile, and oropharynx.

An existing HPV infection cannot be treated. Therefore, immunisations can only work to reduce the risk of contracting HPV. As a result, cervical cancer vaccines ought to be administered before a woman engages in sexual activity and are more likely to be exposed to HPV.

Right Age: The cervical cancer rate can be decreased with Indian vaccination. While doctors advise two doses spaced at 6 months between 9 to 14 years and for girls between 15 to 26 years, they advise three dose regimens (first dose, second dose after 1-2 months, and third dose after six months).

After  Care: A PAP test, every three years, is advised for sexually active women. In a PAP test, the doctor examines the inside of the body and brushes the cervix with an instrument to collect cells for testing. There is currently no vaccine that can completely protect against all HPV cancer-causing viruses.

(DISCLAIMER: Any views expressed are the author’s own and have nothing to do with OTV’s charter or views. OTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)

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