State to begin HPV vaccination drive for 14-year-old girls in mining-affected districts
The initiative, announced in the State's 2025–26 budget, follows recommendations by an expert committee to provide two doses of the HPV vaccine to girls aged 9 years to 14 years as a preventive measure against cervical cancer. According to the G.O., the vaccination drive will begin in eight taluks across four mining-affected districts.
The programme covers the taluks of Gubbi, Chikkanayakanahalli, and Tiptur in Tumakuru district; Sandur in Ballari; Holalkere, Hosadurga, and Molakalmuru in Chitradurga; and Hosapete in Vijayanagara. A grant of ₹4.74 crore has been sanctioned through the Karnataka Mining Environment Restoration Corporation (KMERC) for the campaign, with the cost of each dose fixed at ₹1,260.
The department has identified 37,470 eligible beneficiaries. The vaccine will be administered to girls enrolled in government and aided schools as well as to out-of-school girls. To avail themselves of the vaccine, beneficiaries are required to possess a Below Poverty Line (BPL) ration card.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
This habit with smoking can increase your chances of oral cancer by 624% in the next 5 years
Image credits: Getty Images Smoking leaves behind more than just a taste in your mouth; it leaves behind an elevated risk of oral cancer. In the media, a theory called Cognitive Dissonance is taught to students. It focuses on the discomfort felt when holding conflicting beliefs, leading to people justifying their behaviour. When it comes to smoking, the theory is applied unknowingly by every person addicted to the habit, where they are well aware of the risks and damages it can cause, but keep on justifying the habit with reasons. While this may seem harmless, it can be fatal. Not only smoking, a new study out of YC San Diego suggests that a chronic weed habit can also lead to a high risk of oral cancer. People who often smoke marijuana are 3.25 times likely to contract the disease within 5 years when compared to those without the cannabis use disorder. 'Cannabis smoke contains many of the same carcinogenic compounds found in tobacco smoke, which have known damaging effects on the epithelial tissue that lines the mouth,' said Raphael Cuomo, an associate professor in the Department of Anesthesiology at UC San Diego School of Medicine and member of UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, to the NY Post. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 60,000 new cases of oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer AND ABOUT 12,800 deaths have been reported in the US this year. Oral cancer includes cancer in the lips, tongue, gums and lining of the cheeks and the mouth. The common risk factors of the disease include tobacco use, chronic alcohol addiction and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The increasing risk of oral cancer Image credits: Getty Images The researchers analysed health data from over 45,000 oral cancer patients, including 949 who had been previously diagnosed with cannabis use disorder. They accounted for the factors of age, sex, body mass index and smoking status. They revealed that tobacco smokers with a cannabis addiction are 624% more likely to get oral cancer within 5 years, compared to cigarette users who don't smoke marijuana. The inhaled smoke, as per researchers, damages the mouth tissues and causes cancer. 'Research is still evolving, so regular self-checks and dental exams remain wise for all cannabis users,' said Cuomo. Along with this study, a 2024 study from the University of Southern California also linked marijuana consumption to a 3-5 5-fold increase in the risk of head and neck cancers, of which oral cancer is a type. Cuomo suggested seeing a dentist or an ENT specialist if one has a sore, ulcer, red or white patch in the mouth that has lasted for more than two weeks. 'Early evaluation is critical because oral cancers caught in the first stage are usually curable,' he said.
News18
a day ago
- News18
2 Dead, 58 Infected In Legionnaires' Disease Outbreak In New York City: What Is It?
Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Harlem results in 2 deaths and 58 cases. Health officials advise those with flu-like symptoms to seek urgent medical care. A cluster of Legionnaires' disease in the Harlem area of New York City left two people dead and at least 58 diagnosed, city health officials confirmed. The outbreak, first reported late last week with 22 cases and one death, more than doubled in size in just a few days. The New York City Health Department urged anyone in the affected area experiencing flu-like symptoms- especially older adults and those with pre-existing health conditions- to seek medical attention without delay. Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse said, as per ABC News, 'Legionnaires' disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early. But people over 50, smokers, and those with chronic lung conditions should be especially cautious." What Is Legionnaires' Disease? Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia, caused by Legionella bacteria. Its symptoms closely resemble those of the flu or Covid-19 and include a persistent cough, fever and chills, muscle aches and shortness of breath. If left untreated, the disease can become life-threatening, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems. Unlike respiratory illnesses such as influenza or coronavirus, Legionnaires' disease is not spread from person to person. It can, however, be successfully treated with antibiotics when caught early, making early detection and diagnosis essential. The Legionella bacteria thrive in warm water environments and are commonly found in places like the cooling towers of large air-conditioning systems, hot tubs and whirlpool spas, humidifiers, hot water tanks and complex plumbing systems. These settings can inadvertently provide ideal conditions for the bacteria to grow and multiply. In Harlem, 11 cooling towers tested positive for Legionella pneumophila, the specific strain responsible for the outbreak, according to the Health Department. People typically become infected by inhaling water vapor or mist contaminated with the bacteria- for example, from air conditioning systems, public fountains or rising steam. Officials clarified that the disease cannot be spread through drinking water or passed from one person to another. Where Did The Name 'Legionnaires'' Come From? The disease gets its name from a 1976 outbreak during an American Legion convention in Philadelphia which left 34 people dead and more than 200 ill. Investigators eventually traced the cause to the hotel's cooling system which had released contaminated water droplets into the air. The event was the first major recognition of the disease and led to the discovery of the Legionella bacterium. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from geopolitics to diplomacy and global trends. Stay informed with the latest world news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
NDTV
a day ago
- NDTV
From Diet To Vaccine: Doctor Discusses 6 Ways To Prevent Majority Of Cancers
A report published by the Indian Journal of Medical Research revealed that the estimated number of cancer cases in India for the year 2022 was 14,61,427. The report revealed some alarming figures, as in India, one in nine people is likely to develop cancer in their lifetime. Lung and breast cancers were the leading types of cancer in males and females, respectively. Among the children below the age of 14, cancers, lymphoid leukaemia was the leading site. The study also estimated that the incidence of cancer cases is estimated to increase by 12.8 per cent in 2025 as compared to 2020. While there's no guaranteed way to completely prevent cancer, experts say that certain lifestyle changes and habits can significantly reduce the risk. "Patients who come for surgery tend to ask the most important question of life - How could I have avoided cancer?" Dr SK Bala, consultant- Surgical Oncology & Advanced Robotic Surgery, CMRI Kolkata, told NDTV. Here Are Six Ways By Which The Majority Of Cancers Can Be Prevented Don't Use Tobacco Tobacco use is a major risk factor for numerous cancers, including lung, throat, mouth, bladder, and kidney cancer. "Quitting smoking or avoiding tobacco products altogether is one of the most impactful steps you can take to reduce your cancer risk," Dr Bala said, adding that even being around secondhand smoke may raise the risk of lung cancer. It's not only smoking that's harmful, chewing tobacco has been linked to cancer of the mouth, throat and pancreas. Avoid Obesity and Exercise Regularly Dr Bala said that being overweight or obese increases the risk of several cancers, including breast, colon and endometrial cancers. Regular physical activity, even moderate-intensity exercise, can help you maintain a healthy weight and also directly reduce cancer risk. "Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week," he said. Limit Alcohol Consumption Excessive alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including liver, breast, colon and esophageal cancers. "Limiting or avoiding alcohol intake can significantly lower your risk," Dr Bala said. Eat Healthy Organic Foods Eat a lot of fruit and vegetables. Focus on fruits, vegetables and other foods from plant sources, such as whole grains and beans. Limit foods high in calories, fats and added sugars. Limit red meat, processed meats, refined grains, and saturated and trans fats. Get Vaccinated Certain viral infections can increase cancer risk. "Vaccination against hepatitis B can prevent liver cancer, and the HPV vaccine can protect against cervical and other cancers," Dr Bala said. Get Regular Medical Checkups and Screenings Regular checkups and screenings can help detect cancer early, when it's often more treatable. Pap tests, mammograms, and other screenings are important for early detection and improved outcomes. Consult with your doctor about recommended screenings based on your age and risk factors. Cancer Cases In India Dr Bala said that not all cancers can be prevented because of "random genetic mutation or a strong family history". Furthermore, increasing air pollution, widespread pesticide use in agriculture, and unregulated chemicals in processed foods contribute to cancer risk, even for those without a family history or genetic predisposition. The right way is to go for the recommended cancer screening. Moreover, never neglect any persistent symptoms (e.g. headache, pain in the abdomen, constipation, etc.) that have been present for more than a month. These common symptoms can be caused by cancer, and timely treatment can cure it completely.
