The Public Health Scotland (PHS) research study has found the effectiveness of the HPV (human papillomavirus virus) vaccine in preventing cervical cancer; no cases of cervical cancer have been detected in young women who have been fully vaccinated as part of the HPV immunisation programme.

Human Papillomavirus Virus(HPV)

HPV is a sexually transmitted infection and is responsible for almost all cases of cervical cancer – the fourth most common cause of cancer in women worldwide. It occurs and infects the vaginal area through sexual activity.

 HPV is the name given to a common group of viruses; there are more than 100 types of HPV. At least 14 HPV types have been identified to have the potential to cause cancer. Among these, HPV types 16 and 18 are considered to be the most oncogenic, causing about 70 percent of all cervical cancer cases globally. the HPV vaccine can prevent most cases of cervical cancer if the vaccine is given before girls or women are exposed to the virus. The National Technical Advisory Group for Immunization  (NTAGI)   has recommended the introduction of the HPV Vaccine in the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) with a one-time catch-up for 9-14-year-old adolescent girls followed by routine introduction at 9 years.

READ: India gears up for HPV vaccine drive against cervical cancer: Who can receive this vaccine? Here’s all you need to know | Health and Wellness News – The Indian Express

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age, in India. On September 1, 2022, the Government of India launched the new indigenous cervical cancer vaccine, Cervavac, in partnership with Serum Institute of India Private Limited.