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Vaccines

Pakistan Launches HPV Vaccination Campaign to Protect 13 Million Girls from Cervical Cancer

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Pakistan's Government of Pakistan has launched a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign to protect 13 million girls aged 9-14 from cervical cancer. This campaign joins over 150 countries offering the life-saving vaccine, with the goal of vaccinating at least 90% of eligible girls in the first phase. The initiative aims to integrate the vaccine into routine immunization for 9-year-olds in subsequent years, targeting high-risk and underserved populations. The vaccination will be conducted at fixed centers, schools, outreach sites, and through mobile teams.

Key Takeaways:

  • The campaign aims to vaccinate 13 million girls aged 9-14 against cervical cancer, with at least 90% of eligible girls targeted in the first phase.
  • The HPV vaccine is proven to be safe and effective in preventing most cervical cancer cases, with a single dose capable of preventing the disease.
  • Pakistan loses eight women daily to cervical cancer, making this prevention campaign crucial for women's health in the country.
  • The vaccination campaign is supported by international partners, including Gavi, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • Over 60 million girls worldwide have received HPV vaccination with Gavi support to date.
  • The WHO Representative noted that the vaccine's safety record across Muslim countries represents an investment in healthier futures for girls, families, and the entire nation.
  • Parents are urged to ensure their daughters get vaccinated despite false propaganda campaigns, with Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal emphasizing that ensuring healthier futures for daughters is a shared responsibility.

Statistics:

  • 13 million girls aged 9-14 will be vaccinated against cervical cancer in Pakistan.
  • The campaign aims to vaccinate at least 90% of eligible girls in the first phase.
  • Pakistan loses eight women daily to cervical cancer.
  • Over 60 million girls worldwide have received HPV vaccination with Gavi support to date.
  • A single HPV dose can prevent most cervical cancer cases.
  • A woman dies from cervical cancer every two minutes globally.

Sources:

  • "Pakistan launches HPV vaccine campaign for 13 million girls", .
  • Gavi, , and.
  • UNICEF Representative Pernille Ironside.
  • WHO Representative Dr. Dapeng Luo.
  • "Gavi support to date".

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