The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer cases, which is the second most frequent malignancy among Indian women. According to WHO (World Health Organization) , India accounts for over one-fourth of the worldwide burden, with around 1.23 lakh new cases and 77,000 fatalities annually. Low vaccination rates, limited availability to screening, and social stigma are all associated with an increase in cases. The incidence can be significantly decreased by prevention through HPV vaccine, routine screening, and awareness campaigns.
Despite being one of the most preventable malignancies in medicine, cervical cancer still claims thousands of Indian women’s lives each year. The disease continues to be the second most prevalent cancer among Indian women, with disastrous effects on families and communities, despite the availability of immunizations and screening programs.
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What is Cervical Cancer?
The cells of the cervix, the lower portion of the uterus that joins the vagina, are where cervical cancer begins to grow. Persistent infection with high-risk strains of HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is the main cause.
How It Develops:
Although HPV infection is prevalent, the immune system usually gets rid of it.
- Some women develop precancerous alterations in their cervical cells as a result of the virus’ persistence.
- Over the course of ten to fifteen years, if left unnoticed, these alterations develop into aggressive cancer.
What are Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?
Screening is essential because early stages frequently exhibit no symptoms. Advanced phases could consist of:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic pain
- Unusual discharge;
- Pain during sexual activity
India’s Cervical Cancer cases
A public health emergency is highlighted by these figures:
- Global share: India accounts for one-fourth of global cervical cancer cases
- Deaths annually: ~77,000
- New cases annually: ~1.23 lakh
- Frequency: One Indian woman dies from cervical cancer every 8 minutes
- Projection: Without intervention, cases may rise to 225,000 annually by 2025
Why are Cases Increasing in India?
1. Low HPV Vaccination Coverage:
- Although there are HPV vaccinations, they are not commonly used.
- Uptake is hampered by cost, ignorance, and cultural taboo.
- Mass immunization has resulted in a 90% decrease in HPV infections in nations like Australia, but India is lagging behind.
2. Inadequate Access to Screening
- Early detection of precancerous alterations is possible using Pap smears and HPV testing.
- Screening is infrequent and restricted to urban areas in India.
- The majority of women live in rural areas and frequently do not have access.
3. Social and Cultural Barriers:
- Gynecological health is still considered taboo.
- Because of stigma, women are reluctant to seek medical attention.
- Campaigns to raise awareness frequently fall short of reaching underrepresented groups.
4. Healthcare Inequity:
- Private hospitals may be accessible to urban women.
- Rural women encounter financial obstacles
- Inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled workers.
5.Changing Demographics:
- Usually observed in women over 40.
- Women in their 20s and 30s are receiving more diagnoses
- This is associated with changes in lifestyle and a lack of preventive care.
What is The Reason of Increasing Cervical Cancer cases in India in Women ?
Women are most productive when they are diagnosed with cervical cancer. The effects consist of:
- Economic hardship: Families are forced into debt due to treatment expenses.
- The loss of caregivers: Women are frequently in charge of houses and children.
- Emotional Trauma: Families experience long-term psychological stress due to emotional trauma.
How to Prevent women’s from Cervical Cancer?
1. Vaccination against HPV
- Suggested for females between the ages of 9 and 14.
- Defends against HPV strains that pose a high risk.
- Vaccination is the cornerstone of elimination, according to WHO.
2. Routine Screening:
- Pap smears are used to identify aberrant cells.
- High-risk infections are identified through HPV testing.
- For women between the ages of 30 and 65, the WHO advises screening every three to five years.
3. Awareness campaigns:
- Dispelling the stigma associated with gynecological health.
- Teaching communities on early detection and prevention.
4. Integration into Primary Healthcare:
- Regular health treatments should include screening and immunization.
- Community health workers can be quite important.
How to Eliminate Cervical Cancer from India?
- Every five years, all women between the ages of thirty and sixty-five should be screened, according to the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (2023–2030).
- HPV vaccination programs should be expanded across the country.
- bolstering the infrastructure for primary healthcare.
WHO aims to vaccinate 90% of girls by the age of 15, screen 70% of women by the ages of 35 and 45, and treat 90% of women who have cervical illness.
International Comparisons
- Australia: Due to widespread immunization, Australia is almost completely eradicated.
- United Kingdom: Regular screening and vaccination considerably decreased the incidence in the UK.
- India: India continues to struggle with access, affordability, and awareness.
Policy Suggestions for India
- Educating healthcare professionals to deliver culturally competent care.
- Government initiatives for universal HPV vaccination.
- The integration of inexpensive screening into rural healthcare.
- To increase reach, there are public-private partnerships.
- Community-based awareness programs to dispel stigma.
Final Thoughts: An Appeal
A preventable tragedy is cervical cancer. Vaccines, screening techniques, and medical knowledge are available in India, however they are not widely used. An indication that the issue is becoming worse is the rise in instances among younger women.
India can save thousands of lives annually if it takes decisive action by increasing vaccination, guaranteeing routine screening, and removing cultural barriers. The battle against cervical cancer cases is about justice, dignity, and equity for women rather than just medicine.
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