Leh, May 19 : Consultant Gynaecologist at SNM Hospital Leh, Ayesha, has urged parents to ensure timely Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for adolescent girls, emphasising its role in preventing cervical cancer and protecting long-term women’s health.
Addressing the public during an awareness outreach, Dr Ayesha highlighted the importance of the HPV vaccine, describing it as a safe and effective preventive measure against cervical cancer. She said the vaccine has been approved by the World Health Organization and is currently being administered in 147 countries worldwide.
The gynaecologist stressed that vaccination at the recommended age plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of cervical cancer and encouraged parents to ensure that their 14-year-old daughters receive the vaccine on time.
Officials associated with the awareness campaign said Leh district has already achieved 58 per cent vaccination coverage among the eligible age group, reflecting growing public participation in the immunisation drive.
Health authorities said the ongoing campaign forms part of broader preventive healthcare efforts aimed at reducing the burden of cervical cancer through awareness, early intervention and immunisation.
Medical experts have consistently maintained that HPV vaccination remains one of the most effective public health measures for preventing cervical cancer, particularly when administered during adolescence before exposure to the virus.
