Cervical cancer remains one of the most significant yet preventable health threats to women globally, particularly in countries like India. With more than 96,000 new diagnoses and 60,000 deaths each year (Indian Council of Medical Research, 2018), it is the second most common cancer among women in India. What makes this particularly concerning is its impact on young women, including those in their teens and early twenties, when they are often still in education or entering the workforce.
The primary cause of cervical cancer is HPV (Human Papillomavirus), responsible for 70% of cases worldwide (World Health Organization, 2020). Despite the availability of effective vaccines and screening methods, cervical cancer continues to rise due to a lack of widespread access to prevention and education. It is crucial that we address this public health issue now, especially for those in their education years, to prevent unnecessary loss of young lives.
The Global and Indian Burden of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet it remains a leading cause of death for women. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 342,000 women die from cervical cancer each year, with 80% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries (WHO, 2020).
In India, cervical cancer accounts for 25% of the global burden, with over 96,000 new cases diagnosed annually (ICMR, 2018). Tragically, more than 50% of these cases are detected at advanced stages, where treatment is less effective. India’s screening rate is currently under 10%, far below the 70% target set by the WHO (The Lancet, 2020). This high rate of late-stage diagnoses contributes to the high mortality rate, as most women are not screened early enough for effective intervention.
How Cervical Cancer Develops and Why Prevention Matters
Cervical cancer is caused by persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains, especially types 16 and 18, which are responsible for 70% of cases (WHO, 2020). HPV is transmitted through sexual contact, and while the immune system clears most infections, some persist and lead to abnormal cell growth in the cervix.
Over a period of 10 to 20 years, these cells may progress to cancer if left undetected. Cancer can spread to nearby organs like the bladder, rectum, and lymph nodes, which complicates treatment and lowers survival rates. Early detection and prevention are key. HPV vaccination and regular screening can prevent cervical cancer by addressing the infection before it progresses. The CERVAVAC vaccine, developed by Cadila Pharmaceuticals, is highly effective in preventing HPV infection and, by extension, cervical cancer.
