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Source: The post government’s Plan for Cervical Cancer has been created, based on the article “Keep it wholesome: National cervical cancer control scheme must be made accessible to all” published in “The Hindu” on 21st February 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health.
News: The article discusses the Indian government’s plan to vaccinate girls against cervical cancer and emphasizes the importance of also including screening and treatment in this health strategy.
What is Cervical Cancer?
According to WHO: Cervical cancer is a type of cancer occurring in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. As per the World Health Organization, nearly 99% of cervical cancer cases are associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus transmitted through sexual contact.
Detected: The detection of cervical cancer can be done through simple methods such as VIA (visual inspection with acetic acid) and VILI (visual inspection with Lugol’s iodine). These tests are effective in identifying precancerous conditions and early stages of cancer.
Treated: For early-stage cervical cancer, cryotherapy is a common treatment method. This procedure involves the destruction of abnormal growths and can be performed while the patient is awake, making it a convenient option for treatment.
Concerned:
- In India, cervical cancer is a significant health concern, being the second most frequent cancer among women between the ages of 15 and 44. It is also a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, with over 77,000 women dying from it annually.
- Despite the availability of a vaccine, a major concern is the low rate of cervical cancer screening in India, with an average national prevalence of just under 2%.
What is the Government’s Plan for Cervical Cancer?
Vaccination Program: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s announcement during the presentation of the interim Budget that the government plans to encourage vaccination against cervical cancer for girls aged 9 to 14.
What should be done?
Comprehensive National Program: Establish a national cervical cancer control program accessible to all women, regardless of age, education, affordability, or social status.
Increase Screening: Raise the cervical cancer screening rate, currently at just under 2%, through regular check-ups at primary health centers.
Provide Immediate Treatment: Offer cryotherapy at primary health centers for immediate treatment of detected abnormalities.
Question for practice:
Evaluate the effectiveness of the Indian government’s plan to vaccinate girls against cervical cancer. What additional measures are necessary for comprehensive prevention and control of the disease?
