8.73 Crore Women Screened for Cervical Cancer - HPV Vaccination Campaign
New Delhi: The Government of India has intensified efforts to tackle cervical cancer through nationwide screening and vaccination initiatives. According to data from the National Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Portal, 8.73 crore women have been screened for cervical cancer as of February 17, 2026, reflecting a major push toward early detection and prevention.
The information was shared by Prataprao Jadhav in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.
Alongside screening programs, the government has also launched a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign targeting girls aged 14 years. The vaccination drive is being conducted at designated government healthcare facilities, including Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs (AAMs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), Sub-District Hospitals (SDHs), District Hospitals (DHs), and Government Medical Colleges and Hospitals (GMCHs).
The screening and vaccination initiatives are part of the broader strategy to reduce the burden of cervical cancer, one of the most common cancers affecting women in India.
According to estimates from the National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research under the National Cancer Registry Programme, cervical cancer cases in the country are projected to remain significant over the coming years.
Data indicates that an estimated 76,898 cervical cancer cases were reported in 2021, and the number is expected to increase to 79,239 cases by 2025 across India. Similarly, estimated deaths due to cervical cancer were 41,523 in 2021, with projections suggesting a rise to 42,789 deaths by 2025.
State-wise estimates show that Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Karnataka, and Bihar account for a large share of the projected incidence and mortality numbers during the 2021–2025 period.
Health experts note that early screening and HPV vaccination are among the most effective measures to reduce cervical cancer risk and mortality. With expanded screening coverage and vaccination programs, public health authorities aim to improve early diagnosis and prevent new infections associated with the disease.
The government continues to strengthen cancer surveillance and preventive healthcare services through national programs focused on non-communicable diseases.
Kanchan Chaurasiya joined Medical Dialogues in 2025 as a Media and Marketing Coordinator. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Arts from Delhi University and has completed certifications in digital marketing. With a strong interest in health news, content creation, hospital updates, and emerging trends, Kanchan manages social media, news coverage, and public relations activities. She coordinates media outreach, creates press releases, promotes healthcare professionals and institutions, and supports health awareness campaigns to ensure accurate, engaging, and timely communication for the medical community and the public.