ISLAMABAD: In a major public health move, the government has announced a nationwide vaccination programme aimed at protecting girls against human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer.
Under the initiative, girls aged 9 to 14 in public and private schools will receive the HPV vaccine in two doses. Health officials say the campaign is designed to significantly lower future cervical cancer cases by targeting children before they become sexually active.
At a briefing, the health minister described cervical cancer as “one of the most preventable yet least discussed diseases affecting women.” She stressed that early immunisation and routine screening programmes could considerably reduce mortality rates in coming decades.
The programme has received backing from international health organisations, who have praised the move as a cost-effective intervention in women’s healthcare. School administrators are being trained to organise vaccination sessions, while mobile health units will visit remote districts to ensure wider coverage.
Experts say the campaign’s success hinges on public awareness. Officials plan to launch outreach efforts—through community leaders, media platforms, and local clinics—to address concerns and encourage parental consent.
Cervical cancer is among the leading causes of cancer deaths globally. With only a small percentage of Pakistani women currently screened, the vaccine drive represents a significant step toward comprehensive cervical cancer prevention.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.
