In a major initiative to combat cervical cancer, the government will launch a nationwide vaccination campaign aimed at adolescent girls from February 5, aligning with World Cancer Day. The 15-day campaign, led by the Ministry of Health and Population, aims to vaccinate approximately 1.69 million girls aged 7-14 against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) at no cost.
Health Minister Pradeep Poudel announced the campaign, underscoring its importance in the fight against cervical cancer, which claims four lives daily in Nepal, according to Ministry spokesperson Prakash Budhathoki. Minister Poudel, upon taking office, prioritized the HPV vaccination campaign as a preventive measure to protect young girls from this prevalent cancer. From next year, the HPV vaccine will also become a standard part of the regular vaccination program.
The campaign benefits from financial backing from both the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) and government investment. Senior oncologist Dr. Arun Shahi of Patan Institute of Health Sciences emphasized the critical role of HPV vaccination in reducing cervical cancer risk. Dr. Shahi highlighted several factors contributing to HPV vulnerability, including early marriage, multiple pregnancies in quick succession, high numbers of sexual partners, smoking, excessive drinking, and poor hygiene practices.
This vaccination campaign marks a significant step forward in Nepal’s public health efforts, seeking to protect future generations and curb rising cervical cancer rates among women.
14th Nov 2024
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