What is Cervical Cancer?

-> Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. In India, 200 women die each day due to cervical cancer.
-> It is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of HPV.
-> Early detection and vaccination can prevent most cases.

Signs and Symptoms

-> Involuntary weight loss
-> Fatigue or tiredness
-> Abnormal bleeding after intercourse / between periods
-> Lower back pain
-> Pelvic pain/discomfort
-> Bloody or foul smelling vaginal discharge
-> Very heavy periods
-> Pain while urinating

Causes & Risk Factors

-> Persistent HPV infection (types 16 & 18)
-> Smoking
-> Weakened immune system
-> Multiple sexual partners
-> Long-term oral contraceptive use
-> Chlamydia (STIs)
-> Poverty / Low socioeconomic status
-> Family history
-> Not getting regular Pap tests – begin testing at age 21

How HPV Infection Can Occur

1. Sexual Transmission

-> HPV is transmitted through sexual contact.
-> A person with HPV can pass the infection even without symptoms.

2. Non-Sexual Transmission

-> Skin-to-skin contact other than sexual activity
-> HPV can be transmitted through fingers or contaminated surfaces
-> Warts can spread infection if touched and hands are not washed

3. Vertical Transmission

-> Through amniotic fluid, placenta, or during natural birth
-> HPV can be passed from a birthing person to their baby

HPV is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections. Vaccines induce stronger immunity than natural infection. It is found that 8 in 10 women may contract HPV at some point in their lives.

Tests & Screening

Tests

-> Pap Smear: Detects precancerous or cancerous cells
-> HPV Test: Identifies high-risk HPV types
-> Colposcopy: Further examination if abnormalities are found

Screening Recommendations

-> Women 21–29: Pap Smear every 3 years
-> Women 30–65: Pap Smear + HPV Test every 5 years

Ways to Prevent HPV Infection

-> HPV Vaccination (e.g., Cervavac, Gardasil)
-> Regular Screening (Pap Smear, HPV Test)
-> Safe sexual practices
-> Smoking cessation

Vaccines for Prevention

Available HPV Vaccines

-> Cervavac: India’s indigenous, cost-effective vaccine
-> Gardasil & Gardasil 9: Protect against HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18

Cervavac Highlights

-> Affordable & accessible
-> Strong immunity against high-risk HPV
-> Suitable for girls & women aged 9–26

Doses Recommended for Cervavac

FOR GIRLS 9–14 YEARS
-> Two doses
-> First – (as elected date)
-> Second – (6 months of first dose)

FOR GIRLS 15–26 YEARS
-> Three doses
-> First – (as elected date)
-> Second – (2 months of first dose)
-> Third – (6 months)

Myths About Vaccination & Reality

-> Myth: HPV vaccines promote sexual activity.
-> Reality: They only protect against cancer-causing HPV strains.

-> Myth: Only sexually active women need the vaccine.
-> Reality: Most effective before HPV exposure.

-> Myth: Vaccines are unsafe.
-> Reality: Rigorously tested and proven safe.

Benefits & Side Effects of Vaccine

Benefits

-> Prevents most cases of cervical cancer
-> Reduces healthcare costs
-> Provides long-term immunity

Mild Side Effects

-> Pain at injection site
-> Fever or fatigue
-> Dizziness or nausea (rare)

Stay Informed, Stay Protected!