Patna: Bihar to Launch Free HPV Vaccination Campaign Amid Cervical Cancer Screening Breakthrough

Patna: The Bihar government is set to launch a major health initiative starting October 1, offering free HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) vaccinations to girls aged 9 to 14. This move comes as part of a comprehensive effort to combat cervical cancer, which is a significant concern in the state. Cervical cancer accounts for 31% of cancer-related deaths among women in Bihar, compared to the national average of 17%.

The vaccination program aims to cover one crore girls across Bihar, a state with approximately 95 lakh girls in this age group according to the 2011 census. The initiative will be funded with an allocation of Rs 150 crore.

In a related development, a team of nine doctors from the Mahavir Cancer Institute has announced a groundbreaking new screening method for cervical cancer. After four years of research on 1,250 patients, the team has developed a test that detects cervical cancer at its earliest stage for just Rs 500. This research, which has been published in England’s Scientific Report in Nature Magazine, has shown that the new method identifies cancer in 90% of cases, a significant improvement over traditional screening techniques.

Dr. Ali, a key researcher from the Mahavir Cancer Institute, explained, “Our new screening technique offers the potential to detect cervical cancer at a very early stage, which is crucial for effective treatment. The HPV-DNA test, which can be performed once every three years, is now available and affordable.”

The HPV vaccine, known for its 98% efficacy in preventing cervical cancer, has traditionally been costly, limiting access for many families. The Bihar government’s initiative to provide this vaccine free of charge is expected to significantly reduce the incidence of cervical cancer in the state.

Cervical cancer, while preventable and treatable in its early stages, often remains undiagnosed until it reaches advanced stages. According to the Mahavir Cancer Institute, the traditional Pap smear test, while useful, has limitations in early detection. The new HPV-DNA test addresses these shortcomings and is expected to enhance early diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. AK Ghosh, head of the research department, emphasized, “Women over the age of 22 should get the HPV-DNA test done once every three years. This test, along with regular check-ups, can drastically reduce the incidence of cervical cancer.”

The initiative by the Bihar government, coupled with the innovative screening method, represents a significant step forward in the fight against cervical cancer. The focus on early detection and preventive vaccination is hoped to bring about a major reduction in the number of cervical cancer cases and improve overall women’s health in Bihar.

Key Points:

Free HPV Vaccination: Bihar government to vaccinate one crore girls aged 9-14 starting October 1.
Innovative Screening Test: Mahavir Cancer Institute’s new HPV-DNA test detects cervical cancer in 90% of cases for Rs 500.
High Efficacy: HPV vaccine shown to be 98% effective in preventing cervical cancer.
State Support: Rs 150 crore allocated for the vaccination program.

This comprehensive approach aims to address both prevention and early detection, marking a significant advancement in the state’s healthcare strategy against cervical cancer.