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Cancer Vaccine in Pakistan 2025 – Key Details
Launch Date: September 15, 2025
Vaccine Name: HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Vaccine
Target Group: Girls aged 9–14 years
Goal: Prevent cervical cancer in women
Availability: Free of cost at schools, outreach centers, and health facilities
Partners: Government of Pakistan, WHO, UNICEF, Gavi
Why the Vaccine is Important
- Cervical Cancer Prevention: HPV vaccine prevents most cases of cervical cancer.
- Public Health Impact: Pakistan aims to eliminate cervical cancer as a health problem by 2030.
- Empowering Girls: Protects future generations, giving girls a chance to live healthier lives without fear of this preventable cancer.
Key Aspects of the HPV Campaign
- Targeted Age Group: Girls aged 9–14 years
- Goal: Protect 13 million girls from HPV-related cancers
- Vaccine Availability: Free, WHO-prequalified vaccine
- Campaign Reach: Punjab, Sindh, KPK, Balochistan, AJK, and Islamabad
- Partnerships: WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi supporting Pakistan’s Ministry of Health
Benefits of the HPV Vaccine
- Prevents over 90% of cervical cancer cases
- Provides long-term protection with 1–2 doses
- Safe and effective, used in 150+ countries
- Reduces healthcare costs and cancer treatment burden
Side Effects
Mostly mild and temporary:
- Soreness or swelling at the injection site
- Low fever, headache, or fatigue
- Rare serious reactions (allergic responses)
FAQs
Is the HPV vaccine free in Pakistan?
Yes, it is free under the national campaign.
How many doses are needed?
Usually one dose, sometimes two.
Who should get the vaccine?
Girls aged 9–14 years, before exposure to HPV.
Does it prevent cancer completely?
It prevents most HPV-related cervical cancer cases, reducing over 90% of risk.
Conclusion
The launch of the HPV vaccine in Pakistan is a historic public health milestone. By protecting girls early, Pakistan is moving closer to eliminating cervical cancer, saving lives, and empowering women for the future.