The need for HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccination for adolescent girls, screening for cervical cancer every five years after the age of 30, learning the risk factors, identifying symptoms for early detection and steps for cancer prevention were highlighted by gynaecologic oncologists during a discussion on gynaecological cancers on Saturday.
With September being Gynaecologic Cancer Awareness Month, the Association of Tamil Nadu members of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) organised a discussion on gynaecological cancers.
Talking about cervical cancer, Abraham Peedicayil, head of department, Gynaecologic Oncology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, said HPV vaccines had averted 20 deaths for every 1,000 persons vaccinated. “It is a high impact vaccine. It is licensed for those above nine years of age but the ideal time is during the early teens. The…