The World Health Organization (WHO) Pakistan, in collaboration with its partners, recently participated in a strategic seminar organized by the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) at Foundation University Islamabad. The seminar aimed to advance preparations for the introduction of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in Pakistan.
The new national initiative is designed to protect 13 million girls from cervical cancer by making the HPV lifesaving vaccine widely accessible. During the seminar, representatives from WHO Pakistan, EPI, and other partner organizations discussed the necessary steps to ensure an effective rollout of the vaccine, which is scheduled to begin later this year.
Cervical cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting women worldwide, and the HPV vaccine is widely recognized as a crucial preventive measure. Health officials at the event emphasized the importance of strong community engagement, awareness campaigns, and robust healthcare infrastructure to ensure the vaccine reaches the target population efficiently.
The seminar marked a significant step forward in Pakistan’s public health efforts, underscoring the commitment of both national authorities and international partners to prevent cervical cancer and safeguard the health of millions of young girls across the country.