The HPV vaccine does not replace Pap smears. Vaccination and screening must go hand in hand. The HPV vaccine protects against the most common high-risk strains of the virus that cause cervical cancer, but this means there remains a small but significant risk of cervical cell changes even after vaccination
While vaccination still offers benefits, it cannot eliminate infections that are already present. Regular screening becomes even more essential in such cases. Image used for representational purposes only | Photo Credit: Getty Images
Cervical cancer, a major public health issue in India, can largely be attributed to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). In recent years, awareness around the HPV vaccine has grown significantly in India. The demand for the vaccine is growing due to increased awareness about cervical cancer prevention. The promotion of HPV vaccination, particularly among teenage girls, has been greatly aided by government initiatives, educational programmes, and assistance from health groups. This is further being accelerated by the incorporation of HPV vaccines into State-level immunisation programmes, while there are plans for a Central roll-out as well.
This is a welcome shift. HPV vaccination is a powerful preventive tool against cervical cancer, a disease that continues to claim the lives of thousands of Indian women every year. However, in my clinical practice, I often encounter a concerning misconception: many women believe that once vaccinated, they no longer need regular cervical cancer screening. This assumption can be risky.