Doctors flag HPV as a major factor for the rise in cancer cases among Indian youth

The higher incidence of cancer among Indian youth has become a discussion among medical practitioners in the country. Expressing concern, oncologists across the country observed Human Papillomavirus (HPV) to be a major contributing factor in the rise of the disease. 

Doctors observed the rising trend of cervical, oral and oropharyngeal cancer cases linked to HPV infection. Experts have called for immediate measures to be undertaken to prevent a crisis situation. 

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What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)? 

According to Mayo Clinic, there are more than 100 types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Some can cause skin growths called warts and some other variants of the infection can cause cancer. 

There are vaccines available that can help protect against the strains of HPV most likely to cause genital warts or cervical cancer. 

HPV, which spreads primarily through intimate skin-to-skin contact, is known to be one of the most common sexually transmitted infections globally.

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What stops people from raising awareness and early screening? 

The social stigma attached to the condition and lack of awareness in educating people about the condition are some of the factors leading to poor vaccination rates and screening coverage. 

Experts believe that adopting universal HPV immunisation for preteens, along with catch-up vaccinations for older teens and young adults, is the most effective strategy to curb this epidemic.

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