Dr. Sarika Gupta, Director of Gynecology and Oncology Department of Action Cancer Hospital, Paschim Vihar, Delhi told News18. That all girls aged 9 to 14 years must get the HPV vaccine. This vaccine can protect against cervical cancer up to 98 percent. This is a very effective vaccine, which should be administered at the right age. The body’s immune system responds well at an early age, hence a single dose is considered sufficient for girls up to 14 years of age. Whereas girls aged 15 years or older may require 2 to 3 doses. This vaccine is most effective up to the age of 26 years. Even at older ages, women can get this vaccine after taking doctor’s advice.

Dr. Sarika said that HPV vaccine can be helpful in preventing not only cervical cancer but also some other types of throat cancer. Women whose immune system is weak are at greater risk of cervical cancer. Habits like HIV infection, sex with multiple partners, lack of personal hygiene, early pregnancy and smoking can also increase the risk of cervical cancer. After the age of 30, women should get regular screening done, because identification of this cancer is possible even in the early or pre-cancerous stage and timely treatment can save life.

Experts said that some warning signs of cervical cancer should not be ignored. If symptoms like abnormal bleeding after sexual intercourse, irregular bleeding between periods, smelly water or blood stream discharge from the vagina and bleeding after menopause are seen, then one should immediately consult a doctor and get checked. Treatment is possible with surgery in the initial stages, but chemotherapy may be required in the advanced stages. Therefore, all girls up to 14 years of age should get HPV vaccination and take care of genital hygiene.