Kolkata
Bengal Begins HPV Vaccination Programme for 7.65 Lakh Girls
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has launched a statewide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign aimed at protecting adolescent girls against cervical cancer, with around 7.65 lakh 14-year-old girls expected to benefit.
Suvendu Adhikari on Saturday launched a statewide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign aimed at protecting adolescent girls from cervical cancer, one of the most common cancers affecting women.
The programme targets approximately 7.65 lakh girls aged 14 years across West Bengal and is part of broader efforts to reduce the burden of cervical cancer through preventive healthcare.
The initiative follows the national rollout of the HPV vaccination programme earlier this year and is intended to contribute to the long-term goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a public health threat.
Vaccination Centres Across the State
Speaking at the launch, the Chief Minister said the vaccination campaign would begin at 235 health facilities, including:
- Medical colleges and hospitals
- Sub-divisional hospitals
- Rural (Grameen) hospitals
- Block-level hospitals
“We are starting the vaccination programme for cervical cancer today at 235 health centres,” Adhikari said.
About HPV and Cervical Cancer
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common viral infection and a leading cause of cervical cancer. Vaccination at an early age is considered one of the most effective measures for preventing HPV-related cancers.
Health experts have emphasized that widespread HPV immunisation can significantly reduce future cervical cancer cases and related mortality.
Key Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | HPV Vaccination Campaign |
| Target Group | Girls aged 14 years |
| Estimated Beneficiaries | 7.65 Lakh |
| Health Centres Involved | 235 |
| Objective | Prevention of Cervical Cancer |
Officials said the campaign will be carried out through the state’s public health network, ensuring broad coverage across urban and rural areas.
The launch marks a major public health initiative aimed at improving preventive healthcare for adolescent girls and strengthening cancer prevention efforts in West Bengal.