HPV Vaccine Not Just for Girls — Boys Should Get It Too, Say Experts

“HPV vaccines are not only for girls. Boys aged 9 to 26 years should also get vaccinated. HPV isn’t just about cervical cancer — it can cause several other cancers in both men and women,” said Dr Sanjay Marathe, renowned paediatrician and vaccination expert, spoke at the Conquer HPV & Cancer Conclave 2025, held recently in Pune.

Dr Marathe explained that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) can cause five types of cancers in women — cervix, vulva, vagina, anus, and throat (oropharynx). In men, it’s linked to three types of cancers — penile, anus, and throat. “The good news is that HPV vaccines, once given properly, provide almost 100% protection against these cancers,” Dr Marathe said.

He pointed out that while several NGOs and corporate entities are offering free HPV vaccines under CSR initiatives, particularly in rural areas, many people often skip the second dose.

“The second dose is crucial and should be taken at least six months after the first. People must complete the vaccination schedule unless advised otherwise by their doctor,” he cautioned.

Though global health experts, including the WHO (World Health Organization), have begun considering a single-dose regimen as potentially sufficient for long-term protection, Dr Marathe said, “Until national guidelines change, both doses remain essential.”

India-Made HPV Vaccine Among the Best

Parag Deshmukh, Executive Director of the Serum Institute of India, stated that the Indian-made HPV vaccine is not only WHO prequalified but also one of the most affordable and effective in the world.

“It’s manufactured right here in India, which makes it highly accessible to our people,” he said.

Cervical Cancer: A Major Women’s Health Threat

Highlighting women’s health concerns, gynaecologist Dr Sangeeta Tajpuriya said, “Cervical cancer is the second leading cancer among women in India. Early vaccination can save thousands of lives.”

Dr Charu Baheti stressed the need for awareness among parents. “Parents must understand that HPV vaccines are safe and effective for boys and girls. Early vaccination before sexual exposure offers the best protection,” she said.

Conquer HPV & Cancer Conclave 2025

The conclave, organised by the Serum Institute of India, is part of a nationwide awareness campaign aimed at encouraging timely HPV vaccination for both genders. The campaign will expand to multiple cities over the coming months, targeting schools, parents, and healthcare workers.

HPV Vaccine is Gender-Neutral, Life-Saving

• Cervical cancer ranks as the 2nd leading cause of female cancer in India
• Women at risk of cervical cancer (aged over 15 yrs) is 5.14 crore
• New cervical cancer cases annually: 1,23,907
• Annual cervical cancer deaths: 77,348
• Vaccination age group: 9–14 years preferred, catch-up till age 26
• Coverage goal: WHO aims for 90% of girls fully vaccinated by age 15 by 2030

Source: The Times of India