Cervical cancer prevention needs early vaccination:Health experts urge screening and awareness among women; stressing HPV vaccine between 9 to 14 years for protection

Cervical cancer continues to be one of the most common yet preventable diseases among Indian women. Doctors say early vaccination against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and regular screening can either prevent the disease or help detect it in its earliest stages. Cervical cancer burden in India Nearly all cervical cancer cases are linked to long-term infection from high-risk strains of HPV. Experts emphasise that awareness, prevention, and regular health check-ups can drastically reduce the country’s cervical cancer burden. Right age for vaccination The HPV vaccine is considered the most effective protection available today. Health experts recommend that girls should ideally be vaccinated between 9 and 14 years of age, before any possible exposure to the virus. At this age, the body’s immune system produces a stronger and longer-lasting defence. However, vaccination still benefits older women. It is recommended up to 26 years, and in some cases can be considered up to 45 years after medical consultation. Though protection is strongest when given early, experts say older women also gain significant benefits. Screening saves many lives Doctors stress that vaccination alone is not enough. Regular cervical screening remains essential, as early cell changes often cause no visible symptoms but can develop into cancer over time. Screening Guidelines: Regular screening helps identify pre-cancerous changes at a stage when treatment is simple, quick, and highly effective. Early signs to watch Though early cervical cancer rarely shows symptoms, certain signs should never be ignored: Doctors say these symptoms do not always indicate cancer, but they require immediate medical evaluation. Lifestyle and hygiene habits While HPV infection is the main cause, other risk factors also play a role. Smoking, poor genital hygiene, multiple sexual partners, and a weak immune system increase susceptibility. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding tobacco, and practising safe sex can significantly reduce risks. Insights shared by Dr Sunita Chouhan, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics Gynaecology at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Indore. Awareness is true prevention Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented, detected early, and treated successfully. Health professionals urge families to spread awareness and encourage parents to vaccinate their daughters at the right age. Timely vaccination and routine check-ups, they say, can help India move closer to eliminating cervical cancer as a public health threat.