HPV vaccination up to 45: A key step in preventing cervical cancer

The myths surrounding cervical cancer create barriers to prevention and treatment. Some of the common misconceptions are in relation to considering cervical cancer as invariably fatal, contagious in casual contact, and that HPV infection lasts forever. Breaking these myths and other social taboos over cervical cancer will make women take health care seriously, seek early detection through a PAP test, and access the HPV vaccine. Mass education campaigns to promote proper information and end the silence regarding cervical cancer can diminish its impact and improve outcomes for women all over the world. Such an initiative not only saves lives but also contributes to the goals of the country in achieving gender equality and women's empowerment. Keeping the momentum and cooperation between the government, healthcare providers, educators, and the community will guarantee every girl in India, who is eligible, to receive this life-saving vaccine.

HPV Vaccine is highly effective in preventing HPV infection and HPV related cancers like cervical cancer, penile cancer, anal cancer and head & neck cancer. The currently available nonavalent vaccines protect against 7 common carcinogenic high risk HPV strain and 2 low risk HPV strain which cause genital warts and therefore give around 70% to 80% of protection against cervical cancer by developing protective antibodies against HPV Virus. This emphasizes that screening should be continued even if the person is vaccinated. These vaccines are found to be most effective and useful if administered before encountering the HPV.


Everyone, irrespective of gender, should undergo vaccination before exposure to HPV at the onset of sexual activity. The government's strategy to vaccinate girls aged 9 to 14 aligns with global recommendations, aiming to reduce cervical cancer incidence by vaccinating individuals before exposure to high-risk HPV types. The vaccine will be provided free to eligible candidates through the national immunization program, ensuring access for marginalized communities. Adults in the age group of 26-45 can also get vaccinated as it might provide some protection against the HPV strains, they have not yet got exposed to. HPV vaccination until 45 years of age represents a significant preventive approach that really can reduce the burden of cervical cancer, but also other HPV related cancers.

The HPV vaccine is safe. Like any vaccination, you may feel mild side effects shortly after receiving the injection. Your provider will check on you before you go home to make sure you are fine. There are no long-term side effects. However, some common side effects include soreness, swelling or redness at the injection site, headache or feeling tired, nausea, serious allergic reactions (rare), muscle or joint pain, dizziness, and fever.

With ongoing awareness, partnership in prevention, and mass education and awareness, the HPV vaccine really can be fundamental to women's health by providing protection, prevention, and empowerment.

(Dr Vandana Jain, Sr. Consultant & Head of Department- Gynecologic Oncology, RGCIRC - Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre)