Telangana Rolls Out Free HPV Vaccination Program for Adolescent Girls
In a major public health initiative, Telangana is launching a statewide human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program targeting adolescent girls aged 14 and 15. This move aims to curb the rising incidence of cervical cancer in the region, offering free and voluntary access to the vaccine across all socioeconomic groups.
Program Details and Implementation Timeline
The rollout is scheduled to begin by the end of February or early March, following logistical preparations. The state government has procured 4.6 lakh doses of the quadrivalent Gardasil 4 vaccine, which protects against four high-risk HPV strains: 6, 11, 16, and 18. These strains are responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases.
Vaccinations will be administered at primary health centres (PHCs) and other public health facilities throughout Telangana. An official stated, "We have completed all logistical preparations, including training medical personnel and stocking vaccine doses. Now we await official approval from the central government. Bulk procurement is part of our strategy to combat the growing burden of cervical cancer."
Training and Infrastructure for Smooth Execution
To ensure effective implementation, the health department has trained a extensive workforce:
- 1,200 medical officers
- 2,600 mid-level health providers
- 1,850 supervisors
- 7,000 auxiliary nurse midwives
- 2,000 other staff members
This training aims to facilitate smooth operations at the grassroots level, enhancing the program's reach and efficiency.
Rising Cervical Cancer Burden in Telangana and India
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in India, after breast cancer. Nationally, about 1.27 lakh new cervical cancer cases are reported annually, compared to 1.92 lakh breast cancer cases.
In Telangana, data presented in the Lok Sabha shows a steady increase in cervical cancer cases from 2021 to 2025, rising from 3,169 to 3,233. Mortality rates have also climbed, with deaths increasing from 1,711 in 2021 to 1,746 in 2025.
Expert Insights on HPV Vaccination Benefits
Dr. Hema Latha, a senior government gynaecologist, emphasized the vaccine's importance: "Administering the HPV vaccine to adolescent girls builds immunity before exposure, making prevention far more effective than treatment later on. Symptoms often appear late, and infection typically occurs after sexual exposure, often post-marriage."
She added that the vaccine not only prevents cervical cancer but also reduces risks of other HPV-related cancers, such as anal, vaginal, vulvar, and penile cancers, thereby significantly lowering future cancer cases and deaths.
Cost and Accessibility Advantages
This program is part of the central health ministry's nationwide HPV vaccination drive. By offering the vaccine for free, it addresses cost barriers, as private sector doses typically range from ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 per dose. This ensures equal access for girls from diverse economic backgrounds, promoting broader public health benefits.
