The United Nations (UN) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have issued a global alert on rising cervical cancer deaths as the world observed the first World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day on 17 November 2025. The day was officially designated by the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) to accelerate international commitments towards eliminating cervical cancer as a public health threat.
About Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer develops in the cervix— the lower part of the uterus—mainly due to persistent infection with high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Importantly, cervical cancer is highly preventable, and early vaccination combined with periodic screening drastically reduces mortality.
Global Burden
- It is the 4th most common cancer in women globally, causing one death every two minutes (WHO).
- In 2022, the world recorded 660,000 new cases and 350,000 deaths.
- The South-East Asia region contributes nearly one-fourth of the global burden.
- 94% of global deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, primarily due to limited access to screening, late detection and treatment shortages.
India’s Burden
India remains one of the worst-affected countries:
- India contributed around one-fifth of global cases and nearly a quarter of global deaths (2020).
- Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Indian women, after breast cancer.
- Screening levels remain extremely low: <10% of women have ever been screened; only 2% have undergone screening in the last five years (NFHS-5).
About Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is a double-stranded DNA virus infecting skin and mucosal surfaces.
- 200+ types exist—classified as low-risk (warts) and high-risk (cancer-causing).
- HPV types 16 & 18 account for ~99% of cervical cancer cases.
HPV Vaccination & Prevention Strategies
Vaccines
Six HPV vaccines are globally available, all targeting high-risk HPV 16 and 18.
India developed its first indigenous quadrivalent HPV vaccine (qHPV) called Cervavac, manufactured by the Serum Institute of India, with support from the Department of Biotechnology.
Target Group
Vaccination is most effective for girls aged 9–14 years, before sexual exposure.
WHO Elimination Strategy (2020)
To eliminate cervical cancer by 2030, WHO recommends the 90-70-90 targets:
- 90% of girls fully vaccinated by age 15
- 70% of women screened at ages 35 & 45
- 90% of women with cervical disease receive treatment
India’s Policy Steps
- NTAGI has recommended integrating the HPV vaccine into the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP).
- The 2024–25 Union Budget approved phased free vaccination for girls aged 9–14, marking a major step toward national cervical cancer elimination.
Cervical cancer is among the few cancers that can be prevented, detected early, and cured. Scaling up vaccination, expanding screening, and strengthening health systems are essential for India and the world to meet the 2030 elimination goal.