Cervical Cancer: Building Vaccine Trust Key for a Healthy India

• India faces significant vaccine hesitancy, identified by WHO as a top global health threat, hindering protection against preventable diseases like cervical cancer.
• HPV, a highly prevalent virus, causes cervical cancer; the HPV vaccine is crucial for prevention but faces slow uptake due to misinformation and societal taboos.
• Vaccinating both boys and men against HPV is vital for comprehensive disease prevention, reducing their risk of various cancers and contributing to community immunity.
• India's healthcare system needs to shift towards preventive care, with initiatives like the indigenously developed Cervavac vaccine and government integration into immunization programs.
• Addressing vaccine anxiety through targeted education, increased access, community leader engagement, and workplace programs is essential for widespread adoption and a healthier nation.

Why It Matters: Building vaccine trust and promoting preventive care are crucial for India to combat cervical cancer and achieve comprehensive immunization.