Director Calls for Collective Support to Eliminate Cervical Cancer
New Delhi: Following the launch of the nationwide HPV vaccination campaign by Narendra Modi, Director of All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Dr M Srinivas, has urged parents, teachers, community leaders and healthcare professionals to actively support the initiative aimed at protecting adolescent girls from cervical cancer.
Landmark Step in Public Health
Welcoming the campaign initiated by the Union Health Ministry, Dr Srinivas described the drive as a transformative milestone in India’s public health journey. He said the initiative has the potential to save countless lives in the coming years by preventing a disease that continues to claim thousands of women annually.
Cervical Cancer: A Preventable Burden
Highlighting the gravity of the issue, he noted that cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in India. Despite its high mortality rate, the disease is largely preventable through timely vaccination and awareness.
HPV Vaccine Proven Safe and Effective
Dr Srinivas emphasised that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is scientifically validated, safe and highly effective. Administering the vaccine systematically to girls aged 9–14 years offers strong protection against cervical cancer and significantly reduces long-term health risks.
Importance of Early Immunisation
He stressed that vaccinating girls at the recommended age—before potential exposure to the virus—is critical for maximum effectiveness. Early immunisation not only prevents disease but also reduces future treatment burdens on families and the healthcare system.
Preventive Healthcare at the Core
“At AIIMS Delhi, we have consistently championed preventive healthcare as the foundation of a resilient health system,” Dr Srinivas said. He reiterated that vaccination remains one of the most cost-effective and impactful public health interventions worldwide.
Reducing Emotional and Financial Strain
By preventing cervical cancer at an early stage, the initiative will ease the long-term emotional and financial stress faced by families. It will also contribute to strengthening India’s national healthcare infrastructure by reducing avoidable disease burden.
Call for Nationwide Participation
Urging widespread cooperation, Dr Srinivas appealed to stakeholders across society to ensure every eligible girl benefits from the life-saving vaccine. He described the moment as pivotal, expressing hope that with collective effort, India can move towards a future where cervical cancer is no longer a public health threat.
