February 28, Kohima: Nagaland today launched the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign against cervical cancer in line with the nationwide rollout.
Addressing the state launch at the Naga Hospital Authority, Kohima, Commissioner and Secretary for Health and Family Welfare, Anoop Khinchi, said that cervical cancer remains a major public health concern in India, as it is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women and accounts for over 18 percent of female cancer cases.
However, he emphasized that cervical cancer is 100 percent preventable through vaccination.
He noted that the vaccination drive will continue for three months, during which the HPV vaccine will be provided free of cost for eligible girls aged 14 years at all government health facilities across the state.
Mr. Khinchi encouraged parents and guardians to ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive the vaccine and safeguard young girls from cervical cancer, noting that the vaccine is voluntary.
The event concluded with the administration of the HPV vaccine and the issuance of certificates to beneficiaries.