India’s Cervical Cancer Vaccine more affordable, more effective: Dr Jitendra

NEW DELHI: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh has said that the Cervical Cancer Vaccine developed by India is affordable and more effective.

While thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for launching Mission “Suraksha” during the Covid pandemic and offering unflinching support to the government’s Vaccine programme, the Minister hailed the Department of Biotechnology in the Ministry of Science & Technology for developing this Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine which is unique because of being quadrivalent and thus being highly effective HPV 6,11 and 16,18 which are closely associated with Cervical Cancer in women. He said, the same department had earlier earned worldwide laurels by coming out with first DNA Vaccine for Covid during the pandemic.

In an exclusive interview session at a Health Conclave organised by NDTV at Hotel Hyatt here, Dr Jitendra Singh said, Quadrivalent HPV Vaccine is a boon for the Indian population where mortality among women due Cervical Cancer is reported to be nearly one lakh annually and over 90% % of these women have a history of HPV infection.

Strongly advocating the use of HPV Vaccine, Dr Jitendra Singh said its administration is easy with recommended two-dose regimen for girls below the age of 15 years and a three-dose regimen for girls above 15 years of age.

The Minister highlighted India’s advancements in preventive healthcare, women’s health, and indigenous vaccine development during his address at the “Together Against HPV” conclave. The event focused on the national fight against cervical cancer, which remains a significant health challenge.

Union Minister emphasized the transformative shift in India’s healthcare landscape under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, citing the nation’s achievements in developing indigenous vaccines, including the Quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. He stated that India is now recognized globally for its preventive healthcare initiatives, and the indigenous HPV vaccine is affordable, accessible, and vital in preventing cervical cancer, a disease that puts nearly 450-500 million Indian women at risk annually.

Dr. Jitendra Singh elaborated on the development of the vaccine with the Department of Biotechnology’s support, noting that the Quadrivalent HPV vaccine targets four critical HPV types, significantly reducing cervical cancer risk. He expressed that India has witnessed a cultural shift, with increasing awareness and prioritization of preventive healthcare practices.

Calling for collaboration across sectors,the Minister stressed the importance of a united approach involving the public and private sectors, NGOs, and academia to ensure a robust healthcare system. The Minister reiterated that prioritizing women’s health is central to realizing India’s vision for 2047, underscoring women-led development as a national priority.

Addressing the need to tackle taboos and stigma associated with diseases like cervical cancer, particularly in rural areas, Dr.Jitendra Singh advocated for early detection, awareness campaigns, and inclusive healthcare delivery systems. He also reflected on India’s growing stature as a global leader in science and healthcare, stating that the nation’s success stories in vaccines and medical technology have become global benchmarks. He noted that India is not just catching up with the world but often leading it.

The conclave concluded with a call to integrate HPV vaccination into national immunization programs and foster multi-level collaboration to comprehensively combat cervical cancer.