HPV vaccine not included in Universal Immunization Programme, JP Nadda

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is not part of the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), Union Health Minister J P Nadda told the Lok Sabha on Friday. HPV infection causes cervical cancer.

Responding to a question, Nadda said that a population-based initiative for the screening, management, and prevention of common non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cervical cancer, has been rolled out as part of comprehensive Primary Health Care under the National Health Mission (NHM).

Prevention, control, and screening services are being provided through trained frontline workers, such as Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), with referral support and continuity of care ensured through Community Health Centres, district hospitals, and other tertiary care institutions.

Population-based screening helps in better disease management through early detection, follow-up, and treatment adherence, Nadda stated.

The Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, provides technical and financial support to states and Union Territories under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) as part of the NHM.

The programme focuses on strengthening infrastructure, human resource development, early diagnosis, referral to appropriate healthcare facilities, and health promotion to prevent NCDs, including cervical
cancer, Nadda said.
The ASHAs administer the Community-Based Assessment Checklist (CBAC) for individuals aged 30 years and above. Risk assessment for NCDs, including cervical cancer, is done through CBAC, and high-risk individuals are referred for screening of common NCDs.