RGCIRC hosts free HPV vaccination camp for childhood cancer awareness month

New Delhi: To commemorate Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC) in Rohini organized a free HPV vaccination camp. This initiative, titled “Celebrating Life,” not only raised awareness about childhood cancer but also took a step toward preventing cervical cancer by vaccinating young individuals.

India faces a substantial childhood cancer burden, contributing to 20% of global cases with around 75,000 children diagnosed annually. The event targeted individuals aged 9 to 14, following global guidelines for HPV vaccination, which is crucial in reducing the risk of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is often linked to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and vaccinating at an early age is seen as a vital step in prevention.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Gauri Kapoor, Medical Director at RGCIRC Niti Bagh and Director of Pediatric Hematology & Oncology at the institute, stressed the importance of early vaccination. “Vaccinating at a young age is crucial because it provides protection before exposure to high-risk HPV types, thereby significantly reducing the risk of cervical cancer,” she said.

The camp administered approximately 250 free doses of the HPV vaccine, with the focus on childhood cancer survivors. The initiative was supported by contributions from the Wheel Club Delhi Rajendra Place, Innerwheel Club of Faridabad Industrial Town, Rotary Club of Delhi South, and Rotary Club of Delhi South End, which made the vaccinations available at no cost to the participants. The event saw active participation from children and adult survivors of childhood cancer who received their free HPV vaccinations.

While high-income countries boast cure rates of over 80% for childhood cancers due to advanced healthcare services, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like India struggle with a cure rate below 30%. Barriers such as delayed diagnosis, lack of access to care, and treatment abandonment contribute to preventable deaths from childhood cancer in these regions. This initiative underscores RGCIRC’s commitment to advancing cancer prevention, supporting survivors, and promoting community health through preventive care measures.