Odisha Government Announces Free Statewide Cervical Cancer Vaccination Programme
In a significant public health initiative, the Odisha government is set to launch a free statewide immunisation programme aimed at protecting girls against cervical cancer. The programme will commence on February 28, as announced by State Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling during a blood donation camp in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday.
National HPV Vaccination Drive Integration
This immunisation effort is part of the nationwide human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination drive for adolescent girls, which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the same day. Mahaling detailed that girls up to the age of 14 years will receive a single dose of the vaccine free of cost at all designated government health centres across the state.
For older adolescents, the programme extends further: girls from 14 years of age until their marriage will be provided with three doses of the vaccine, also at no charge. The health minister noted that discussions are currently underway regarding the modalities for vaccinating girls above 14 years, with the state examining the standard operating procedure (SOP) released by the Ministry of Health for this purpose.
The vaccine will be made available through all government health centres under the supervision of the Health and Family Welfare Department, ensuring widespread accessibility.
Mukhya Mantri Cancer Care Abhiyan: A Comprehensive Approach
In addition to the vaccination drive, Mahaling highlighted the Mukhya Mantri Cancer Care Abhiyan, a revamped version of the existing Odisha Cancer Care Plan recently announced in the state budget. The minister has proposed an allocation of Rs 311 crore for this campaign, which will include:
- Intensive community awareness programmes
- Extensive village-level screening and mobile camps
- Establishment of a cancer registry
- Implementation of a digital hub-and-spoke model for early treatment
- Free patient transportation services
Expert Insights on Cervical Cancer Prevention
Gynaecologist Dr. Sujata Kar emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Cervical cancer is the second-most common form of cancer in women, with breast cancer being the first." She explained that cervical cancer is preventable if diagnosed early through regular screening with a pap smear test.
Dr. Kar pointed out a critical issue: many women, particularly in rural areas, discover the disease at later stages due to lack of awareness about cervical cancer and hygiene issues. She recommended that women aged 18 years or older, or those who have become sexually active, should undergo a pap smear test annually to ensure early detection and prevention.
Official Launch and Leadership
The statewide programme will be formally launched by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in the presence of State Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling. This event marks a pivotal step in Odisha's efforts to combat cervical cancer and improve overall women's health through proactive immunisation and comprehensive care strategies.
