New Delhi: Oncologists across India are raising red flags over the rising incidence of cancers linked to Human Papillomavirus (HPV), especially among people in their twenties and thirties. The virus, primarily transmitted through intimate contact, is now a leading cause of cervical, oral, and throat cancers in the country.
Dr Ashish Gupta, chief oncologist at Amerix Cancer Hospital, warned that HPV-related cancers are affecting patients far younger than before. “We’re seeing people in their twenties with advanced-stage cancers that could have been prevented through vaccination and awareness,” he said. He stressed that while HPV is preventable, public understanding remains dangerously low.
Experts say HPV infections often remain silent and progress quickly, making early detection crucial. Yet, India lacks a nationwide HPV vaccination program.
“A stigma around discussing HPV keeps people in the dark, leading to poor vaccination and negligible screening,” said Dr Shubham Garg of Dharamshila Narayana Hospital.
Doctors advocate for universal HPV immunization for adolescents, including catch-up doses for older teens and young adults. Global studies show that early vaccination significantly reduces cancer risk. But vaccination alone won’t suffice, say experts — regular screening and nationwide awareness campaigns are essential.
“Pap smears, HPV DNA tests, and oral screenings should be as routine as blood pressure checks,” Dr Gupta said, urging policymakers to include these under national insurance coverage. “We’re dealing with a cancer we can largely prevent. That’s rare — and we must act now.”
Dr Rahul Bhargava of Fortis Gurugram summed it up: “Every vaccinated child means one less cancer patient. Prevention here isn’t just better than cure — it’s the only logical choice.”
