India is accelerating towards cervical cancer eradication, with Health Minister JP Nadda disclosing 86+ million screenings under NP-NCD during a WHO press event. Virtually from New Delhi, he spotlighted holistic strategies fortifying women’s health nationwide.
Cervical cancer’s burden demands action: India’s response integrates prevention via HPV vaccines, VIA-based screenings at 30,000+ facilities for women 30-65, early detection, and curative care.
The screening milestone underscores momentum. Now, the nationwide HPV campaign—unveiled by PM Modi February 28—aims to vaccinate 12 million 14-year-old girls in 90 days with free, WHO-approved Gardasil.
Emphasizing consent and community trust, Nadda credited ASHA workers and health teams for execution. This aligns seamlessly with WHO’s 90-70-90 framework, promising 90% vaccination coverage, 70% screening, 90% treatment by 2030.
WHO chief Dr. Tedros hailed India’s ‘world’s biggest’ free drive, confronting 80,000 yearly deaths and 42,000 cases. He linked it to broader challenges like HIV successes and obesity rises, advocating innovation and collaboration.
South Africa’s minister added global cheers. Nadda’s closing call: collective resolve to end cervical cancer as a public health scourge, empowering women everywhere.