Jammu: A free vaccination campaign aimed at preventing cervical cancer among girls in Jammu and Kashmir was launched here on Wednesday, officials said.
Health Minister Sakeena Itoo inaugurated the initiative, describing it as a landmark step in the government’s efforts to safeguard women’s health and secure a healthier future for the region.
Highlighting the significance of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, she stressed the need for widespread awareness about its safety and effectiveness, calling for a continuous outreach campaign across Jammu and Kashmir.
The minister also urged the departments of social welfare and school education to work closely with the Health and Medical Education Department to support and promote the initiative.
Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, Principal of Government Medical College, Jammu, noted that cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the region, with persistent HPV infection being the primary risk factor. “This cancer is largely preventable through timely HPV immunisation,” he said.
Dr. Bhavna Langer, Associate Professor in the Department of Community Medicine, added that the HPV vaccine will be provided free of cost to girls aged 9-15 years. Vaccinations will be available at the State Cancer Institute in Jammu and through outreach sessions at schools, Anganwadi centres, and urban slums, with the goal of making Jammu and Kashmir cervical cancer-free by 2030.
