Pakistan has launched a nationwide Cervical Cancer Prevention Campaign to vaccinate girls aged 9 to 15 against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the main cause of cervical cancer. The initiative, led and endorsed by Dr. Nikhat Shakeel Khan, convenor of the Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights, aims to reduce preventable disease and strengthen child and women’s health across the country.
The campaign will deliver HPV vaccines to girls in the target age group through schools and health facilities, with outreach designed to reach communities nationwide. Health officials say timely vaccination, along with education and screening, is key to preventing most cases of cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in Pakistani women, but experts emphasize that it is largely preventable through vaccination and increased public awareness. The campaign combines immunization with communication efforts to inform parents and communities about the benefits and safety of the vaccine.
Dr. Nikhat Shakeel Khan described the effort as a major step for child health and disease prevention. “This campaign is a vital step toward protecting the lives of young girls and reducing the future burden of preventable diseases,” she said, urging broad public support.
She also highlighted the importance of cooperation between government, health partners and civil society. “This campaign reflects the government’s commitment, in collaboration with our partners, to prioritize child health and well-being. It is not only an investment in the health of our young girls but also a critical stride towards achieving our national and global commitments on child rights, women’s health, and sustainable development.”
Calling for collective participation, Dr. Khan appealed to parents, educators, community leaders, healthcare workers and the media to support the drive and ensure high vaccination uptake. Officials say strong community engagement will be essential to the campaign’s success and to securing long-term reductions in cervical cancer incidence.
