GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

Context

January was observed as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of addressing cervical cancer as a public health issue. Additionally, March 4 is marked as International HPV Awareness Day, underscoring the significance of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer.

Cervical Cancer Burden and Projections:

• Prevalence:Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in India, with a significant impact on women's health and mortality rates.
• Public health challenge: Without intervention, the number of cervical cancer cases and deaths is projected to rise substantially in India, posing a significant public health challenge.
• Disparities at global level:The majority of cervical cancer cases and deaths occur in lower- and middle-income countries, exacerbating health disparities globally.

Strategies for Prevention:

• Vaccination:Prevention strategies for cervical cancer primarily involve HPV vaccination and screening for precancerous lesions.
• Comprehensive approach:The World Health Organization advocates for a comprehensive intervention approach, aiming for high vaccination coverage, screening rates, and treatment accessibility by 2030.
• Lack of effective strategy:Despite progress, many lower-resourced communities still lack effective intervention programs, hindering efforts to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health concern.

Role of Physicians and Medical Societies:

• Role of physicians: Physicians play a crucial role in advocating for HPV vaccination and promoting awareness about cervical cancer prevention.
• Education:Medical societies like FOGSI and IAP are mobilizing physician champions to educate their peers and communities about HPV vaccination and screening.
• Addressing concerns: Building trust in vaccine safety and effectiveness, addressing misinformation, and ensuring equitable access to HPV vaccination are essential for effective cervical cancer prevention.