Single dose HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) Vaccination for Cervical Cancer Prevention in Pakistan

Abstract

Pakistan is launching the HPV Vaccine in September 2025,in its EPI (Expanded Programme for Immunization) for 9 to14 year old girls. This has been suggested by Professionalorganizations in Pakistan including SOGP (Society ofObstetricians & Gynaecologists) and AMAN (Associationfor Mothers & Newborns.¹ At the 2nd Global CervicalCancer Elimination Forum held recently, world leadersannounced new investments and policy pledges toexpand access to HPV vaccination, screening andtreatment – bringing the world closer to making cervicalcancer the first cancer ever to be eliminated.² HPVvaccination can prevent the majority of cases. Combinedwith screening and timely treatment for precancerousCervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and invasivecancer, it can lead to elimination. However, in 2024 only 46% of low-income countries introduced HPV vaccinationnationally, compared to 98% of high-income nations.

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