World Cancer Day: RGCIRC conducts HPV vaccination drive to raise cervical cancer awareness

New Delhi: Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC), a leading institution in cancer care and research organized a special vaccination camp in association with Children Unbound Foundation and Salcomp to mark World Cancer Day 2025.

As part of the event, 150 girls aged 15–20 years were administered free doses of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, ensuring protection against high-risk HPV types that are known to cause cervical cancer.

The initiative aimed to promote HPV vaccination as a primary preventive measure against cervical cancer.

Speaking about the initiative, Indu Aggarwal, Head of Department, Preventive Oncology, RGCIRC, said, “While many cancers, including cervical cancer, are preventable, the challenge lies in raising awareness and improving access to care. Through the ongoing vaccination drive, we aim to reach the young population, offering hope and prevention to curb the rising cancer burden in India.”

The vaccination drive kicked off with a symbolic lamp-lighting ceremony marking the beginning of a day focused on raising awareness and promoting preventive health measures.  Following the lamp-lighting ceremony, an awareness skit/play was performed, emphasizing the importance of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer and educating the audience about the significance of early prevention and health screenings.

Dr. Shashi Rakheja, Senior Consultant, Preventive Oncology, RGCIRC emphasized, ” Vaccinating at a young age is crucial as it provides immunity before exposure to high-risk HPV strains, significantly lowering the risk of cervical cancer. The WHO aims to have 90% of girls vaccinated by their 15th birthday by 2030. It’s crucial that we raise awareness, educate communities, and promote screening and vaccination to protect future generations from this preventable cancer.”

The vaccination drive was conducted with in association with Salcomp & Children Unbound Foundation. The initiative witnessed enthusiastic participation, reinforcing RGCIRC’s commitment to cancer prevention, public health awareness, and community well-being. Through such efforts, the institute continues to contribute toward the larger goal of eradicating cervical cancer in alignment with WHO’s 2030 strategy.