By-Dr. SHANU JAIN, CONSULTANT- RADIATION ONCOLOGY, HCG Cancer Center – Nagpur
Parents seek the best for their children. We think about healthy food, education, safety—and wholesome health. However, there is one important health factor that many Indian families tend to side-step: the HPV vaccine in young girls.
HPV, or human papilloma virus, is a DNA virus from the Papillomaviridae family, which can lead to serious health issues over the time. Getting vaccinated can greatly reduce the risk of cancers linked to this virus, particularly Cervical cancer. It is most effective when administered before a person comes into contact with HPV — ideally during the early teenage years, before the sexual debut.
Why Is HPV Important to Know About?
HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a virus that can spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, often during sexual activity. In most cases, the body clears the infection on its own. However, certain types of HPV can remain in the body and lead to serious health problems. For women, one of the biggest concerns is cervical cancer — a condition that usually develops quietly over time, without noticeable signs in the early stages. Because the signs can be silent for years, it’s hard to know when trouble might start. This makes prevention all the more important. The HPV vaccine helps stop the virus from causing damage, in the first place.
Why Give the Vaccine Early?
The best time for the vaccine is between the ages of 9 and 14. At this age, the immune system builds stronger protection. Besides, giving it early means the vaccine works before the girl could possibly come into contact with the virus. It is equally effective in the age group between 15-20 and can be given till the age of 45 years.
Waiting too long can reduce the vaccine’s effect. Sadly, many girls miss this chance because parents and doctors don’t discuss this issue early enough.
Parental Worries?
Some parents wonder whether the vaccine is really needed, or, whether it might encourage early sexual activity. Others worry about safety, or side effects. The truth is, the vaccine is very safe. Nor will it change a child’s behaviour. What it does is, lower the risk of serious disease, in the long term.
Think about vaccines for polio or measles. We don’t wait for symptoms before giving those. The HPV vaccine works the same way. Saying ‘Yes’ simply means you want to protect your daughter, not give permission for irresponsible behaviour.
What Happens After the Vaccine?
Most kids feel fine. Some might have a sore arm or feel a bit tired, for a day or two. These symptoms are mild and temporary. The long-term benefits of evading cancer far outweigh the entirely temporary distress brought on by these minor side effects.
The Importance of Talking Openly
In India, discussing concerns relating to reproductive health, with children; especially girls, tends to become an uncomfortable experience, due to long-standing inhibitions. This lack of open conversation can deter the implementation of necessary health measures, such as timely vaccinations. However, it is heartening to find that many parents who learn about HPV and the vaccine and decide to break the undesirable silence. They lead the way by showing their daughters it’s okay to care about their health and to talk about it.
Doctors, schools, and family members all can help. If you’re unsure, ask your doctor. She can explain the vaccine schedule, answer your questions, and help you decide what’s best.
Prevention is a Powerful Tool
Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers we can prevent before it starts. That’s a big advantage. Choosing the HPV vaccine means lowering the chances of your daughter having to deal with this disease later.
Is it recommended for boys as well?
HPV virus is linked to development of not only cervical cancer but also cancer of the vulva and vagina in females and cancer of penis, anus, mouth, tonsils, or throat in males engaged in oral or anal sex. Vaccinating boys will not only improve the herd immunity but will also prevent infection in their female partners as it spreads through sexual activity. It will also give protection against genital warts. Recent WHO guidelines recommend it for boys as well.
When it comes to your child’s well-being, taking steps to prevent avoidable illness is one of the most thoughtful decisions you can make. The HPV vaccine offers more than just medical protection — it gives young girls the chance to grow up feeling secure, supported, and strong.
If you’re still weighing the decision, keep it simple. Choose protection. Choose prevention. And above all, choose a safer, healthier future for your daughter.