Cervical Cancer Awareness: Importance of Screening and HPV Vaccination

Cervical cancer is one of the leading health threats for women in India. According to the World Health Organization, our country accounts for nearly one-fifth of the global cervical cancer burden. What makes this statistic even more concerning is that cervical cancer is not only detectable at an early stage but also largely preventable. With the combination of regular screening and timely Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, women can safeguard themselves against this life-threatening disease.

Understanding Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. Most cases are linked to a persistent infection with certain high-risk strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is extremely common, and most sexually active men and women will be infected at some point in their lives. While in many cases the infection clears on its own, persistent infection can cause precancerous changes that may progress to cervical cancer if left untreated.

Unlike many other cancers, cervical cancer does not develop suddenly. It often takes years for abnormal cervical cells to turn into cancer. This long window offers a unique opportunity for early detection and prevention, provided women undergo regular health checks.

The Power of Screening

Screening is the first line of defense against cervical cancer. It helps detect abnormal cell changes before they turn cancerous. The two most effective methods are:

• Pap Smear Test: This test examines cervical cells under a microscope to detect early changes.
• HPV DNA Test: This identifies the presence of high-risk HPV strains even before cell changes occur.

Women between the ages of 25 and 65 years should undergo screening at intervals recommended by their gynecologist. Early detection can ensure simple, outpatient treatments that prevent progression to cancer. Unfortunately, many women in India seek medical care only after symptoms appear—such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or foul-smelling discharge—when the disease is already advanced.

HPV Vaccination – A Preventive Shield

The introduction of HPV vaccines has been a game-changer in cervical cancer prevention. Studies have shown that vaccination can prevent nearly 90% of cervical cancer cases. The vaccine is most effective when given before the onset of sexual activity, ideally between 9–15 years of age for both girls and boys. However, women up to the age of 26 can also benefit if not vaccinated earlier.

Encouragingly, India now has indigenously developed HPV vaccines, which are more affordable and accessible. This provides an opportunity to expand vaccination programs across schools and communities, ensuring protection for the next generation of women.

Breaking Barriers: Awareness and Stigma

Despite the availability of effective preventive tools, several barriers remain. Cultural taboos around women’s reproductive health, lack of awareness, and misconceptions about vaccines contribute to low screening and vaccination rates. Some parents hesitate to vaccinate their daughters due to myths about safety or concerns about encouraging early sexual activity—both of which are unfounded.

Dr Sameera Aluri - Senior, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Sri Sri Holistic Hospitals Hyderabad Telangana

It is vital to spread the message that HPV vaccination is about cancer prevention, not lifestyle choices. Just as we vaccinate children against polio or measles, HPV vaccination is a simple step towards preventing a deadly disease. Likewise, routine gynecological screening should be viewed as an essential part of women’s healthcare, not as a matter of shame or stigma.

The Way Forward

Globally, countries that have adopted large-scale vaccination and screening programs are already witnessing a sharp decline in cervical cancer rates. There is no reason why India cannot achieve the same. What is required is a joint effort:

• Healthcare providers must actively educate and encourage women about screening and vaccination.
• Schools and parents must take responsibility for ensuring eligible children receive HPV vaccines.
• Communities and policymakers must invest in awareness drives and accessible screening facilities.

A Message of Hope

At Sri Sri Holistic Hospitals, we strongly believe that prevention is the best cure. Our initiatives in women’s health focus not just on treatment, but on awareness, counseling, and preventive care. Cervical cancer need not remain a leading cause of death among women—it is a disease we can control, and even eliminate, with the tools already available to us.

As a gynecologist, my message to every woman is simple:

• Do not ignore your health. Schedule your screening.
• Talk openly with your family about HPV vaccination.
• I strongly recommend HPV vaccination as a safe preventive measure against the causes of cervical cancer.
• Break the silence around cervical cancer—it is preventable.

If we act today with awareness and commitment, we can ensure that future generations of women live free from the fear of cervical cancer.