Serum Institute of India Launches Nationwide HPV-Cancer Public Awareness Campaign
Chennai: The Serum Institute of India (SII) has launched a nationwide public health initiative to raise awareness about Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and its link to cervical and other cancers. The campaign, titled “Conquer HPV & Cancer Conclave 2025,” aims to educate the public about the risks of HPV and the importance of prevention.
India reports over 1.23 lakh new cervical cancer cases and more than 77,000 related deaths annually. Apart from cervical cancer, HPV is also associated with cancers of the vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and oropharynx, affecting both men and women.
A panel of medical specialists, including Dr. Vijaya, Dr. Somu Sivabalan, Dr. Kavitha Sukumar, and Dr. B. Sarath Balaji, discussed the public health implications of HPV and the importance of awareness, prevention, and early detection. The speakers emphasized that early awareness and timely preventive action are essential, particularly given the peak HPV infection age between 15 to 25.
With an affordable HPV vaccine now available, it has become easier to protect individuals from HPV-associated cancers. The campaign aims to increase understanding of HPV and its link to cancers, encouraging open dialogue and practical steps toward early detection and prevention.
The initiative will continue in cities across the country, creating platforms for credible voices in healthcare to educate and empower the public. By reducing the burden of preventable cancers through informed decision-making and community engagement, the campaign aims to make a significant impact on public health.
“Through these conclaves held across the country, we aim to increase understanding of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and its link to cervical and other cancers,” said Parag Deshmukh, Executive Director, Serum Institute of India.
