Cervical cancer kills over 70k in India annually: Doc explains why HPV vaccine is a must for girls

The news of actor Poonam Pandey's death has shocked everyone. As per a social media post made by her manager, the 32-year-old actor from Kanpur succumbed to cervical cancer today. Pandey was a known model and reality TV star.

The actor’s death news has drawn attention to a relevant health concern which is cervical cancer. On February 1, in the Union Budget, the government had specifically announced to encourage vaccination against cervical cancer for girls between 9 to 14 years of age. Cervical cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer seen in women in India. The prevalence of this killer disease remains high in India due to a lack of awareness and the presence of a large group of susceptible population of women.

In view of the growing concern around cervical cancer, Dr Amit Verma, Founder and Director, Dr. AV Cancer Institute, Gurgaon emphasizes why every girl in India should be given the HPV vaccine.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a prevalent global sexually transmitted infection affecting both genders, but young girls stand to gain significant benefits from the essential HPV vaccine. This preventive measure plays a vital role in safeguarding their health and preventing the potential development of cervical cancer—a major threat to women's overall well-being.

Understanding HPV and its risks

HPV infections, transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact, are widespread. While many clear up on their own, certain high-risk strains can lead to serious health issues, with cervical cancer being the most concerning. Cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer in women globally, and third most common in women in India, underscoring the pivotal role of preventing HPV infection to reduce the incidence of this potentially life-threatening disease.

The power of the HPV vaccine

The HPV vaccine emerges as a powerful tool in the fight against cervical cancer. Administered in two or three doses, depending on the specific vaccine, this preventive measure is most effective when given before any sexual activity begins. Let's delve into several compelling reasons why every young girl should consider getting the HPV vaccine:

Cervical cancer prevention: The primary benefit of the HPV vaccine is its role in preventing cervical cancer. By targeting the most common high-risk HPV strains responsible for cervical cancer, the vaccine significantly reduces the chances of developing this potentially deadly disease.

Early immunization is key: The vaccine is most effective when administered before any sexual activity, as it protects against the targeted HPV strains before exposure occurs. Immunizing girls at a young age ensures they are shielded against the virus and lowers the risk of developing related complications later in life.

Herd immunity: When a large percentage of the population is vaccinated, it creates a phenomenon known as herd immunity. This not only protects those who have received the vaccine but also helps reduce the overall prevalence of HPV in the community, indirectly safeguarding unvaccinated individuals.


Reduced emotional and financial burden: A cervical cancer diagnosis not only poses physical health challenges but also brings emotional and financial burdens. The emotional toll of dealing with a potentially fatal disease and the financial strain of medical treatments can be overwhelming. The HPV vaccine offers a proactive and cost-effective approach to avoiding these hardships.

Extended protection: The HPV vaccine doesn't just guard against cervical cancer. It also helps prevent other HPV-related cancers, such as vulvar, vaginal, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. By taking the vaccine, young girls are investing in their long-term health and reducing the risk of multiple HPV-associated diseases.

Global impact: HPV is a global health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. By encouraging young girls to take the vaccine, there is a collective effort to reduce the global burden of HPV-related diseases, contributing to the overall improvement of women's health on a global scale.


In conclusion, the HPV vaccine is a crucial tool in the prevention of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. Every young girl should consider taking this vaccine as a proactive measure to protect her health and well-being. By doing so, not only does she invest in her future, but she also contributes to the larger goal of reducing the global impact of HPV-related diseases. Empowering young girls through vaccination is a key step in promoting a healthier and more resilient generation of women.