Eliminating Cervical Cancer in India: Challenges and Prospects
Open Access
- 7 January 2026
- journal article
- Published by American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene in The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
- Vol. 114 (1) , 6-9
Abstract
: Cervical cancer is a malignancy with a well-established viral origin linked to high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types. Globally, there are 348,709 estimated deaths among 662,301 cervical cancer cases. India faces a disproportionately high burden, contributing to 79,906 of these deaths and accounting for over 22% of global deaths. The nation’s high mortality rate is attributable to the low rate of cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination uptake. There is a greater impact of cervical cancer on those of lower socioeconomic status and a cultural stigma surrounding sexually transmitted infections. We recommend a comprehensive cervical cancer prevention strategy, including screening programs, culturally sensitive education for patients and providers, government-endorsed HPV vaccination, and continuing studies on diagnostics and vaccination in the Indian context.Keywords
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