Year on, no guidelines yet on free HPV vaccinations

Bengaluru: The delay on the part of the union government drawing up guidelines for states to provide free HPV vaccination to adolescent girls for nearly a year since the initial announcement has raised some concerns among gynaecologists.

Besides this delay, lack of widespread awareness about the benefits of vaccination against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is risking a lot more women to potentially develop cervical cancer, which is one of the most common cancers affecting them, warned gynaecologists. 

Gynaecologist Dr Sheela Mane explained that the emphasis is on vaccinating adolescents early so that antibodies are formed earlier and can offer them a better advantage against contracting an infection.

“Recent studies also suggest that a single dose of the HPV vaccine would be enough to offer protection until 20 years of age and two doses would be required for people aged 21 to 26,” she said. The vaccine can be taken in three doses by people up to the age of 45. 

Pap smear test

A pap smear is the standard way to screen patients but other options include HPV DNA testing, which is conducted once in five years up to the age of 65, she added. 

Vaccination – the most effective way to prevent an infection, apart from contraception – is not just for women. It is also effective to protect men from penile and anal cancers, noted Dr N Sundari. 

“We have seen cervical cancer cases even in monogamous relationships. A vaccination taken early can prevent vulval, vaginal, throat, head and neck, and mouth cancers linked to HPV infection. 

Doctors acknowledged that costs — ranging from Rs 6,000 to about Rs 11,000 for three doses, depending on the brand — might deter people from getting vaccinated. Hence, they are pushing for it to be included in the universal vaccination programme. 

Infection risks

Dr Sowmya Sangamesh noted that having multiple sexual partners and engaging in unprotected sex ups the risks of contracting an infection.

“Annual health check-ups are recommended, especially if someone engages in three consecutive years of sexual activity. Pap smears are mandatory after 30 years of age. If pap smears are clear, we can wait until 65 years of age and get a screening done then,” she said. 

Cut-off box - Karnataka among 6 states chosen for pilot
In the 2024-25 budget Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced that the government would encourage vaccination for girls aged 9-14. Karnataka was one of at least six states chosen for a pilot but no guidelines have been framed a year on noted officials in the state Health department.

Cut-off box - Karnataka among 6 states chosen for pilot
In the 2024-25 budget Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced that the government would encourage vaccination for girls aged 9-14. Karnataka was one of at least six states chosen for a pilot but no guidelines have been framed a year on noted officials in the state Health department.