The Indian government plays an important role in supporting patients going through the challenging journey of cervical cancer which continues to be a leading cause of death in females in the country. There are numerous schemes and programs, including financial aid offered by the government as well as other organizations to those battling the disease. Here, we explore specific offerings for cervical cancer patients and support system that are available in the country. Notably, cervical cancer stands amongst the second leading cause of cancer deaths for females in India.
There is a close connection between cervical cancer and the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV impacts the skin, throat and genital area. Almost all sexually active individuals encounter HPV at some point, often without notable symptoms. A human body is generally programmed to clear HPV from the body, however, in case of persistent infection with high risk HPV strains, there can be abnormal cell development, leading to cervical cancer. Most cervical cancers are result of untreated HPV cervix infection.
The Indian government has introduced various schemes and programs to address challenges faced by cancer patients. Here are some of the key initiatives:
The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a decisive call in May 2018 to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health concern. Various initiatives like early diagnosis, HPV vaccination and pre-cancer and cancer treatments were introduced. The initiative received formal endorsement from the World Health Assembly (WHA) on November 17, 2020.
The WHA has developed a global strategy with targets to be achieved by 2030 which include:
Ensuring 90% of girls by the age of 15 receive full vaccination
70% screening of women aged between 35-45 years using accurate performance testing
Providing treatment to 90% of women diagnosed with the disease.
The government of India has taken several steps to address cervical cancer in the country. These include:
Inclusion in Universal Immunization Programme (UIP): The Indian government announced the inclusion of HPV vaccination in the UIP for girls aged between 9-14 years in February 2024. This step has ensured wider accessibility and affordability of the vaccine.
Development of indigenous vaccine: The government has taken various steps to make the vaccine affordable, and one of its initiatives is the development of the vaccine in the country. India developed and launched quadrivalent HPV vaccine ‘Cervavac’ in 2022.
Budgetary allocation: The procurement and distribution of HPV vaccines as part of the UIP expansion was pushed in the 2024 interim budget.
Various states across India have taken steps to maximize their reach when it comes to HPV vaccination. In 2016, Punjab introduced the HPV vaccination into its immunization program with 97% success rate. Sikkim also introduced the HPV vaccine into its immunization program in the same year with 97% of targeted girls vaccinated. Mizoram introduced free HPV vaccination in its immunization program for girls aged between 10-12 years. Uttar Pradesh has also announced free HPV vaccination for schoolgirls in selected districts as a part of a pilot program.
There are various programs launched by the government through media and educational campaigns to create awareness among women about early signs and symptoms of cervical cancer and benefits of early detection.
The Indian government initiated a comprehensive program focussing on chronic diseases in 2011, especially for screening and treatment of cervical cancer. In addition to the state and central governments, various private & public philanthropic organizations and NGOs participate in diverse healthcare initiatives to prevent and treat diseases like cervical cancer.
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PMJAY/PM-JAY): A comprehensive health insurance coverage for up to Rs.5 lakh per family, per year is provided, covering treatment for cervical cancer also among other listed ailments.
Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN): This central government scheme provides financial aid to patients below the poverty line. The Health Minister’s Cancer Patient Fund which is a part of RAN offers financial support of up to Rs.2.50 lakh per patient for cancer treatment.
Jan Aushadhi: This government initiative provides cost effective healthcare solutions by offering generic anticancer drugs at affordable prices. The cost of drugs like carboplatin, cisplatin, gemcitabine, docetaxel, doxorubicin, oxaliplatin, capecitabine, and etoposide, which are commonly used for the treatment of cervical cancer is significantly reduced under this initiative further reducing financial burden of cancer patients.
Cancer Aid and Research Foundation (CARF): This NGO supports underprivileged cancer patients, providing healthcare facilities like diagnosis and treatment. The organization also focuses on creating awareness about cancer prevention.
YouWeCan: Founded by cricketer Yuvraj Singh, the NGO conducts screenings, offers treatment and educates people about cancer, especially in rural areas by conducting screening camps.
CanSupport: This non-governmental organization offers free of cost palliative care services to cancer patients across India. Their team comprise of qualified doctors, nurses, and counsellors who visit registered patients for symptom management and treatment.
The Indian government has introduced various schemes and programs to combat cervical cancer. However, there is a need to address the broader challenge of cancer care, spread awareness and break the stigma around the disease. By providing a comprehensive support system, the country can empower individuals facing this life threatening battle and give them a chance to overcome it.