HPV Vaccination Saves Girls

Cervical cancer is a silent epidemic that takes away the lives of four women daily in Nepal. It is the second most common form of cancer and a major cause of cancer-related deaths among women. The main cause behind this deadly disease is HPV, a virus spread through sexual contact and, if not treated, can lead to cervical cancer. A report from GLOBOCAN 2020 indicated that out of 14,000 deaths recorded in Nepal in 2022, a total of 7,768 died of cervical cancer. 

The most potent weapon to combat it is the HPV vaccine. Vaccination against HPV can lower the risk of cervical cancer and, to an extent, that of anal, vulvar, and penile cancers. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends HPV vaccination as a key public health strategy for global cancer prevention. 

On February 4, the government is launching a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign aimed at preventing the rampant spread of cervical cancer. 

This initiative aims to vaccinate over 1.6 million adolescent girls aged between 10 and 14 years. The girls need to be immunised before they are exposed to any of the virus. The school-based vaccination programme will ensure that the young girls are vaccinated just before they are expected to become sexually active. Studies have shown that the vaccine provides 97 per cent protection against the virus. This early intervention is crucial for preventing future generations. 

The cost of the HPV vaccine is not affordable for many families in Nepal. Prices charged for a single dose by private hospitals have risen to as high as Rs. 15,000, which the poor families can hardly pay for. However, the forthcoming government-funded campaign, with support from global partners GAVI, WHO, and UNICEF, will provide this vaccine without any cost. 

Although the government has been able to make the vaccine available, public awareness and spread of information are essential for the success of this campaign. Many people are unaware of the vaccine’s efficacy to prevent cervical cancer.

It is imperative that the government, in collaboration with health-related organisations, launches a comprehensive campaign to inspire more and more girls to take the life-saving shots. Parents must be aware of the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness to ensure their daughters are vaccinated on time. The Ministry of Health and Population is set to introduce the HPV vaccine into Nepal’s National Immunisation Programme. It aligns the country with global efforts to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030.

The success of the vaccination campaign will depend on widespread participation and informed decision-making by the concerned authorities. It is essential to combine with other activities in public education and community engagement. 

Education and outreach programmes can be instrumental in building acceptance and uptake of the HPV vaccine. The vaccine can save countless lives and reduce the burden of cervical cancer significantly.

(Rijal is a journalist at The Rising Nepal.)