Rising HPV-Related cancer cases alarm Indian oncologists
HPV is driving up cases of cervical, oral, and throat cancers in Indians in their 20s and 30s.
It now causes 7.5% of all cancers here, with cervical cancer most common in women and oropharyngeal cancer rising among men.
Even though cervical cancer rates have dropped a bit, total HPV-related cases could top 1.2 lakh by 2025.
Cervical cancer still 2nd most common cancer among Indian women
Cervical cancer is still the second most common cancer for Indian women, making up 18.3% of female cases in 2020.
More young men are also getting oropharyngeal (throat) cancers, likely linked to HPV infection.
Lack of awareness, stigma keep people from getting vaccinated
India doesn't have a national HPV vaccination program yet—even though vaccines work well and early screening helps.
Social stigma and low awareness keep many from getting vaccinated or tested, so these cancers often go unnoticed until late.
Experts want HPV vaccines for teens, routine screenings for all
Experts want an open conversation about HPV vaccines for teens and routine screenings like Pap smears and oral checks.
They're pushing for these services to be part of basic healthcare and insurance so cost isn't a barrier.
Hitting WHO's targets by 2030 could actually wipe out cervical cancer as a public health threat within our lifetimes.