Cervical Cancer Prevention Efforts in India

PURPOSE: Cervical cancer is one of the leading cancers among women in India. Its prevention and control require a concerted effort to improve awareness among women regarding primary and secondary prevention strategies as well as access to care for treatment and palliation. A focused strategy is important to reach the World Health Organization’s targets for cervical cancer elimination, due to be completed by 2030. METHODS: Currently available literature was reviewed regarding cervical cancer prevention strategies in India including various national programmes and other initiatives on the part of government, non-governmental organizations and professional organizations. Their applicability to the present situation was assessed. RESULTS: National programmes need to build on success stories of various states and neighbouring countries as well as to audit the performance. Strengthening of cancer registries and improvement of linkages between different healthcare levels with incorporation of task-shifting, adding digital technology and supporting programmes that promote women’s welfare and health will also provide synergy to cancer control programmes. In the current pandemic era, HPV self-sampling can be an ideal method for screening. The development of an affordable, point-of-care HPV test is urgently needed to facilitate its introduction in low- and middle-income countries. HPV vaccination efforts need to be speeded up. CONCLUSION: Scaling up of cervical cancer prevention with inclusion of widespread HPV vaccination and primary HPV test should be the new standard of care.