Metro India News | Hyderabad 

India recorded about 14.6 lakh new cancer cases in 2022 and this number is expected to reach 15.7 lakh per year by 2025. Among women, breast cancer and cervical cancer are the most common. Sadly, many people go to the doctor only after the disease has advanced, making treatment harder and survival chances lower.

But the good news is, some types of cancer can be prevented through vaccines. This year’s World Immunization Week (April 24–30) is being observed with the theme ‘Humanly Possible: Protecting Future Generations,’ highlighting how vaccines can protect people from serious illnesses, including certain cancers.

CARE Hospitals is encouraging everyone to understand the importance of vaccines in preventing cervical and liver cancers. The Indian government has already taken a big step by including the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in its Universal Immunization Programme. This vaccine protects young girls from the HPV, which causes most cases of cervical cancer. Similarly, the Hepatitis B vaccine helps prevent liver cancer by stopping long-term liver infections.

Dr. Satish Pawar, Consultant Surgical Oncologist at CARE Hospitals, Hi-tech City, Hyderabad said, ‘We now know clearly that vaccines can prevent cancer. Dr Prabha Agarwal, Sr. Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecologist, Laparoscopic Surgeon at CARE Hospitals, added, 'Cervical cancer is largely preventable with the HPV vaccine.  In fact, young women up to age 26 can also benefit if they haven’t yet received the vaccine. It’s one of the most effective ways to protect their long-term health.'

The HPV vaccine works best when administered between the ages of 9 and 14, but catch-up vaccination is also advised for young women up to 26 years of age. It can prevent over 90% of cervical cancer cases.