Doctors in Bengaluru Raise Awareness About HPV-Linked Cancers

City-based oncologists and paediatricians came together on a common platform on Tuesday to discuss the public health implications of Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

The doctors, who participated in ‘Conquer HPV and Cancer Conclave 2025’ in Bengaluru, emphasised that HPV is not limited to cervical cancer. It is also associated with cancers of the vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and oropharynx, affecting both men and women.

The speakers highlighted the pressing need for awareness, the importance of reaching both adolescents and parents, and the role of healthcare providers in guiding preventive care. With peak HPV infection occurring between ages 15 to 25, early awareness and timely preventive action are essential. With an affordable HPV vaccine now available, it has become easier to protect every individual from HPV associated cancers, the doctors said.

Moderated by Bhaskar Shenoy, head of Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases Division at Manipal Hospitals, the conclave was held as part of a nationwide public health initiative led by the Serum Institute of India (SII).

India continues to face a significant burden of HPV-related diseases, particularly cervical cancer, which remains the second most common cancer among women in the country.

According to the Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Information Centre on HPV and Cancer (2023), India reports over 1.23 lakh new cervical cancer cases and more than 77,000 related deaths annually. Apart from this, up to 90% of anal cancers and 63% of penile cancers are associated with HPV.

The initiative will continue in cities across the country in the coming months, creating platforms for credible voices in healthcare to educate and empower the public, the organisers said.

According to the source: The Hindu.