Health Minister Urges Vaccination Against Cervical Cancer, Stresses Early Detection

Kathmandu. Minister for Health and Population Dr. Sudha Gautam stated that cervical cancer is curable if detected in its early stages.

In a video message wishing success for the 'Human Papillomavirus' (HPV) vaccine campaign against cervical cancer, which began today, she requested everyone to get vaccinated without hesitation as the vaccine is safe. She also urged all women above 30 years of age to undergo regular cervical cancer screening.

"The main cause of cervical cancer is HPV virus infection. This disease can be prevented through the vaccine against that virus," said Minister Dr. Gautam. She mentioned that the HPV vaccine has been operationalized under a regular campaign since last year with the objective of eradicating cervical cancer in Nepal.

Starting today until Falgun 15, the government has begun administering the HPV vaccine nationwide to adolescent girls studying in Grade 6 and out-of-school adolescent girls aged 10. Similarly, adolescent girls studying from Grade 7 to 10 and out-of-school girls aged 11 to 14 who missed last year's vaccination campaign will also be vaccinated.

Minister Gautam emphasized that everyone should get vaccinated as the vaccine is safe and protects women's lives. She expressed the view that parents should also encourage their daughters to get vaccinated. In Nepal, an average of six women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every day, and four women die from it.