Kerala: HPV Vaccination Drive for Higher Secondary Girls to Prevent Cervical Cancer

Thiruvananthapuram: In order to eliminate cervical cancer in the state, Kerala Health Minister Veena George announced yesterday on July 28, 2025 that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine will soon be administered to girl students in Plus One and Plus Two classes. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to prevent cervical cancer, one of the leading cancers among women in Kerala.

The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by the minister in Thiruvananthapuram. A final call on vaccine procurement will be made in the coming week during a technical committee meeting.

Cervical cancer ranks as the third most common cancer affecting women in the state, following breast and thyroid cancers. According to a recent Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) study, 7.9% of female cancer patients in Kerala are affected by cervical cancer. Breast cancer tops the list with 73.35% cases, followed by thyroid cancer at 24.9%.

Medical experts stress that cervical cancer, much like certain liver cancers, is largely preventable through vaccination. The primary cause of cervical cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and immunization significantly lowers the risk. While the vaccine is most effective when administered between the ages of 9 and 14, it is also recommended up to the age of 26.

Earlier this year, the state launched a comprehensive cancer screening campaign for women above 30 years of age, focusing on cervical and breast cancer. Over 17 lakh women have been screened as part of this initiative. The introduction of HPV vaccination among school girls marks the next critical phase in Kerala’s fight against cancer.

To ensure widespread participation and public confidence, the government will also roll out an extensive awareness campaign. This will include orientation programs for students, teachers, and parents to educate them on the importance and safety of HPV vaccination.