The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a widespread virus. While most infections are cleared by the immune system without issue, certain high-risk strains can lead to cellular changes that may develop into cancer. The HPV vaccine is a preventive measure that targets the virus types most commonly associated with cancers, particularly cervical cancer, by protecting against infection from these strains.
The Burden of HPV-Related Cancers in India
India faces a public health challenge from cancers linked to HPV. The country has a high incidence and mortality rate from cervical cancer, which is the second most common cancer among women in India. This disease places a heavy load on the nation’s healthcare system and affects women and their families.
The scale of the issue is large, with India accounting for a high percentage of global cervical cancer cases and deaths. The prevalence of high-risk HPV types 16 and 18 is a primary driver of these figures. These two strains are responsible for causing over 70% of cervical cancers in the country. This health burden highlights the need for effective prevention strategies, as vaccination is key to reducing future cases.
Types of HPV Vaccines Available
Several HPV vaccines are approved for use in India, each offering protection against different strains of the virus. The choice of vaccine depends on factors like the specific types of HPV targeted, availability, and cost. These vaccines are a primary tool in preventing HPV-related diseases.
Cervarix is a bivalent vaccine formulated to protect against two high-risk HPV types: 16 and 18. By targeting these specific types, Cervarix helps reduce the risk of the most common causes of cervical cancer.
Another widely used vaccine is Gardasil. It is a quadrivalent vaccine that targets HPV types 16 and 18, as well as types 6 and 11, which are the primary causes of genital warts. A newer formulation, Gardasil 9, is a nonavalent vaccine that protects against nine HPV types, offering broader protection.
Cervavac is India’s first domestically produced quadrivalent HPV (qHPV) vaccine. Developed by the Serum Institute of India, Cervavac targets HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18. Its local production is a notable step toward making HPV vaccination more affordable and accessible throughout the country.
Recommended Schedule and Private Market Cost
The recommended schedule for HPV vaccination in India varies by age. For individuals aged 9 to 14, a two-dose schedule is advised. Those who start the vaccination series at age 15 or older require a three-dose schedule to achieve a sufficient immune response.
On the private market, the cost of HPV vaccines can differ based on the brand and the facility. Gardasil 9 is the most expensive, with a price per dose of around ₹10,850. The quadrivalent Gardasil vaccine is more moderately priced, costing between ₹2,000 and ₹4,000 per dose.
Cervarix is priced in the range of ₹3,000 to ₹3,500 per dose. The indigenously developed Cervavac is the most affordable option, with a price of approximately ₹2,000 per dose, making it a more accessible choice for many.
Government Vaccination Programs and Accessibility
The Indian government has been working to make the HPV vaccine more accessible by including it in the national Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). This move is intended to provide the vaccine to adolescent girls aged 9-14 as part of the routine immunization schedule. The goal is to ensure widespread, equitable access to this preventive measure.
Several states have already initiated their own HPV vaccination programs. States such as Sikkim, Punjab, Delhi, and Maharashtra have launched pilot projects or free vaccination drives targeting school-aged girls. Sikkim was one of the first states to roll out the vaccine and achieved high coverage rates among adolescents, demonstrating the potential success of such programs.
The development of the indigenous Cervavac vaccine supports a nationwide public vaccination drive due to its lower cost compared to imported vaccines. In government hospitals and public health centers participating in these programs, the vaccine is often provided for free or at a highly subsidized rate.