Cervical cancer control in India: taking evidence to action
Farooqui, H.H.; Zodpey, S.
Journal of Public Health Policy 33(2): 165-172
2012
ISSN/ISBN: 1745-655X PMID: 22555096 DOI: 10.1057/jphp.2012.7Document Number: 561791
The most prevalent types of human papillomavirus in cervical cancer in India are HPV 16 and HPV 18, found in 60.7 per cent and 16 per cent of cases respectively. A comprehensive strategy with a judicious mix of interventions on health promotion, specific protection (vaccination), early diagnosis (screening), and treatment should be instituted to prevent and control cervical cancer in India. Proponents of vaccination and screening argue for enhanced investments on these interventions based on their relative cost-effectiveness. For policymakers, the major concerns about these interventions remain affordability and cost to government. Herein we try to review comprehensively the evidence on prevention and control interventions and to recommend appropriate policies to guide public health decision-making.