Cervical cancer: HPV vaccines available, cost and age groups

Cervical cancer, a significant health concern for women in India, is primarily caused by high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

This cancer forms in the cervix, the entrance of a woman’s uterus to the vagina.

When a high-risk HPV enters the cervix, via sexual contact, it can cause dysplasia, the growing and spreading of abnormal cells.

fight against this disease. In India, several vaccines are available to prevent HPV-associated cancers and genital warts.

Dr Tanaya Narendra, known as ‘Dr Cuterus’ on social media, spoke about the importance of taking the HPV vaccine.

“More than 90% of all cervical cancer cases are linked to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), and since 2006 we’ve had a vaccine against HPV. A simple shot can protect you from the second most common cancer in Indian women, why not take it?” Dr Tanaya Narendra told IndiaToday.In.

CERVICAL CANCER VACCINES, COSTS AND AGE GROUPS

The most well-known vaccine is Gardasil 9, which offers protection against nine types of HPV that are responsible for a majority of HPV-related cancers.

The vaccine is approved for use in both males and females aged 9 to 45 years. As of the latest information, Gardasil 9 is priced at Rs 10,850 per dose in India.

Another vaccine, Gardasil, targets four strains of HPV 6, 11, 16, and 18, and has been licenced for use in India since 2008. It is commercially available for Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000 per dose.