The word “cancer” often brings fear. But today, we have vaccines that can help prevent some cancers. One of the most important is the HPV vaccine, which protects against human papillomavirus (HPV) – a common sexually transmitted virus.
Nearly 50% of sexually active people are exposed to HPV at some point. While most infections go away on their own, some high-risk types can cause cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, penis, and even parts of the throat.
📊 Gynaecological Cancers in India – At a Glance
- 🧬 Cervical Cancer → ~1,00,000 new cases every year → 50,000–60,000 deaths
- 🧬 Ovarian Cancer → ~45,000 new cases annually
- 🧬 Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer → ~20,000+ cases, rising steadily
👉 Most of these cancers are detected late, making prevention and early detection very important.
Why Vaccination Matters
- HPV vaccine prevents most cervical cancers and some other HPV-related cancers.
- Vaccination at the right age can reduce cervical cancer in India by 85–90%.
- Research is ongoing for vaccines against ovarian and uterine cancers.
HPV Vaccine – A Proven Shield
- Protects against high-risk HPV strains (16 & 18).
- Best for girls and boys aged 9–14; can be given up to 26 years (sometimes till 45).
- Reduces risk of cancers of cervix, vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and throat.
- Safe, effective, and long-lasting.
New Vaccines in Development
- OvarianVax – BRCA1/2 gene vaccines – for women at high risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
- Other therapeutic vaccines – p53, HER2, WT1 (target proteins in ovarian/uterine cancers).
- Still in trial phase, not available in routine practice.
Types of Vaccines
| Type | Purpose | Examples | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive | Stops cancer before it starts | HPV vaccines (Gardasil, Cervarix, Cervavac) | ✅ Approved & available |
| Therapeutic | Helps fight existing cancer | BRCA1/2, p53, HER2, WT1 vaccines | 🔬 In research |
💡 “Your Questions, Answered”
💡 Can married women take HPV vaccine? Yes, up to 26 years (sometimes till 45).
💡 Will vaccines cure cancer? No, HPV vaccine prevents infection. Others are in trials.
💡 Do vaccinated women still need Pap tests? Yes, because not all risks are covered.
💡 Are BRCA vaccines available in India? Not yet – only in research.
September is Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month
🌸 At Healius Cancer and Haematology Clinics, you can:
- Get a Free Consultation with cancer specialists
- Do a Pap smear test for early detection
- Join our HPV Vaccine Drive to protect yourself and your family
✅ Final Note
Gynaecological cancers affect lakhs of women in India every year. The HPV vaccine and regular screening are powerful tools to prevent cervical cancer, while new vaccines offer hope for ovarian and uterine cancers.
At Healius Cancer and Haematology Clinics, guided by Dr. Mangesh Kamath, women receive world-class, updated treatment and prevention strategies with a strong focus on patient care and awareness.
