A chilling statistic grips India: one woman dies from cervical cancer every eight minutes. Oncologist Dr. Meera Pathak reveals this grim reality, underscoring a preventable tragedy unfolding across the nation.
With 123,000 new diagnoses and 77,000 fatalities yearly, cervical cancer dominates as a leading killer of women aged 15-44. HPV infection fuels nearly all cases, yet vaccination coverage hovers at a mere 1%. Screening lags even further, with under 3% participation among at-risk groups.
Dr. Pathak, speaking at a national health summit, dissected the crisis. ‘Poverty, illiteracy, and gender inequities amplify the risk,’ she said. In Uttar Pradesh alone, incidence rates exceed 20 per 100,000 women – double the national average. Symptoms like post-coital bleeding or unusual discharge often go unnoticed until Stage III or IV.
Contributing factors abound. Tobacco use among women has surged 10% in rural belts, compounding HPV risks. Nutritional deficiencies weaken immune responses, while childbirth complications heighten vulnerability. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened matters, slashing screening camps by 60%.
Global benchmarks inspire change. The UK eliminated cervical cancer nearly through sustained programs. India’s National Cancer Control Programme aims for 75% vaccination by 2030, but experts demand acceleration. Biotech firms are testing indigenous HPV vaccines, promising affordability.
Dr. Pathak advocates grassroots strategies: mobile screening units, HPV self-test kits, and digital awareness apps. ‘Empower women with knowledge; they are the first line of defense,’ she urges. Policymakers must prioritize funding – the cost of inaction far outweighs investment. India’s women deserve better; the clock ticks every eight minutes.