Cervical Cancer: Preventable Yet Deadly. Debunking HPV Vaccine Myths in India.

• Cervical cancer is India's second most common cancer among women, causing 74,000 deaths annually, largely preventable.
• Over 90% of cases are linked to persistent HPV infection, a common virus transmitted through intimate contact.
• HPV vaccines are highly effective, reducing precancerous lesions by nearly 98% when administered early, ideally before sexual debut.
• Despite a 2024 domestic vaccine roll-out, India faces low uptake due to misconceptions about safety, timing, and necessity.
• Countries like Australia, UK, and US show dramatic declines in HPV infections and precancerous changes with widespread vaccination.

Why It Matters: Early HPV vaccination and screening are crucial to combat cervical cancer, requiring public education to overcome myths.