The Hindu Business Line : WHO initiative for cervical cancer vaccine

Hyderabad, Feb. 10 If efforts of World Health Organisation (WHO) fructify, a vaccine to tackle HPV-related cervical cancer will soon be available free or at minimal costs to Indian patients. The three-shot vaccine,available only on request, costs up to $400.

Globally renowned oncologists say most of the cervical cancers are caused by HPVs, or human papilloma viruses, which are transmitted through sexual contact. The vaccine should be administered in women before the sex life begins.

“Cervical cancer is the most common cancer among women. Though a vaccine is available (Merck’s Gardasil), it is currently not accessible. We are expecting a WHO initiative in the next two-four months, where they plan to offer the vaccine free or at a very low price,” Dr Vijay Anand P. Reddy, Director of Apollo Cancer Institute, said.

Cancers in kids

The Hyderabad-based Shanta Biotech too is working on a HPV vaccine. Dr Reddy was addressing a press conference along with Dr Chitty R. Moorthy, Director of New York Medical College (US), and a few other globally-known oncologists.

Dr Moorthy said, unlike in adults, most cancers in children could be cured. “We can save them at even stages three and four, thanks to advanced research done in the field over a period of time” he said.

The two medical institutes have joined hands to organise a two-day international conference (Cancer CI-2008), beginning February 9.

To be inaugurated by Mr N. D. Tiwari, Andhra Pradesh Governor, the meeting would discuss latest developments in the treatment of various types of cancers. Ms Renuka Chowdary, Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development, would launch the National Apollo Cancer Care network.

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