Latest news with #HPV
Time of India
an hour ago
- Health
- Time of India
40% of cases at RST Hospital are head & neck cancers
Nagpur: Ahead of World Head and Neck Cancer Day on Sunday, RST Cancer Hospital in Nagpur revealed a worrying local trend: Head and neck cancers (HNC) account for 40% of all cancer cases diagnosed at the hospital over three years. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The hospital's data, collected from 2020 to 2023, showed that of the 8,327 cancer patients registered, 3,316 had head and neck cancer. As many as 75% of these patients were men and most suffered from oral cavity cancer. The RST team shared the figures to mark the annual awareness day observed globally on July 27, which aims to educate the public about cancer. The hospital will be observing this day on Saturday as July 27 is Sunday. Dr Kartar Singh, head of Radiotherapy at RST Cancer Hospital and principal investigator of its Hospital-based Cancer Registry, said that delayed diagnosis remains a major hurdle, especially in rural and semi-urban populations. "Late-stage diagnosis is one of the most significant threats our community faces. People often arrive at the hospital only when the disease is advanced, which severely limits treatment options," he said. The study, led by research scientist Dr Revu Shivkala, also showed that men were 60% more likely to be affected than women. Besides oral cavity cancers, other rising sites included the pharynx, larynx, thyroid, brain, and even regions like the nose and neck. Tobacco is the single largest risk factor, contributing to nearly 75% of all HNC cases in India. Other contributors include areca nut (supari) chewing, alcohol, and infections like HPV and EBV. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Dr BK Sharma, advisor and principal investigator of the Population-Based Cancer Registry (PBCR) at RST, emphasised the importance of prevention and early intervention. "Cancer doesn't have to be a death sentence. With community education, screening, and early treatment, we can drastically reduce mortality," he noted. Nagpur has shown a rise in HNC cases among women, as per recent registry trends underlining the need for awareness even among populations traditionally considered as low-risk groups. Dr Harish Kela, joint director at RST, called for urgent community-level interventions. "The rising trend is alarming. We must focus on school and village-level awareness, regulate tobacco access, and empower healthcare workers to identify early symptoms," he said. BOX WORLD HEAD & NECK CANCER DAY EVENTS TODAY Rashtra Sant Tukdoji (RST) Cancer Hospital and Research Centre will observe World Head & Neck Cancer Foundation Day on July 26, from 9.30am to 11am at its premises. Dignitaries including GMCH Dean Dr Raj Gajbhiye, Dr Devendra Mahore, Sanjay Agarwal, and Thyroid Man of India Dr Madan Kapare will attend. The programme is being held in collaboration with IMA Nagpur, Hedgewar Blood Bank, Lions Club of Medicos, and others.
Hans India
4 hours ago
- Health
- Hans India
IVF Day 2025: Insights And Hopes From Industry Experts For Future Families
Parenthood has always been a blessing, but for many, the road to becoming a parent is not always smooth. Today, as the world pauses to honor a day of profound importance, we commemorate a significant medical milestone: in vitro fertilization (IVF). IVF is more than simply a scientific phrase; it represents the fulfillment of countless dreams and the undying spirit of hope that exists within every woman. In fact, over the years, IVF has transformed into a landscape of family building, lighting the way for those on their journey to parenthood. Therefore, to celebrate this extraordinary occasion, we've gathered insights from the experts in the healthcare sector. These individuals have shared their thoughts on the life-changing transformations that IVF brings for people. So, let's look at what IVF means today and what it can offer future generations. Abhishek Aggrawal, CEO, Birla Fertility & IVF, said, "When it comes to IVF, the financial cost is only half the story. The most often overlooked cost is time. Many couples today choose to postpone parenthood for career, financial or personal reasons, which is understandable given the demands of modern life. What many may not realize is how significantly age can affect fertility over time, especially for women. A woman is born with around 2 million eggs, yet by 35 only a small fraction of that reserve remains. Research also shows that after 35, sperm quality begins to decline gradually as well." "We meet many couples who come to us after years of trying on their own or after other interventions, often feeling overwhelmed by the emotional and financial strain. Our role is not just to provide treatment but also to guide couples with clear, upfront information about their timelines, chances of success, and the best way forward based on their unique situation. At Birla Fertility & IVF, we believe that reliable care begins with proactive care. Our integrated approach combines transparent counselling, advanced clinical care and emotional support to help couples make informed decisions without unnecessary delays. Fertility care should always be effective, ethical and compassionate, and that is what we aim to deliver every day," he added. Mr. Sombrata Roy, Unit Head, CK Birla Hospitals, CMRI Kolkata, commented, "World IVF Day is a reminder of how far we have advanced in accessibility and compassion in reproductive care. Infertility is a serious and complex health issue that is becoming more common, but we can make a difference with awareness and proactive treatment. Preventive care is also critical—with HPV vaccination as an example, providing young girls protection against a detrimental health future—potential future infertility through cervical cancer. However, by opening the conversation to both fertility and prevention, CMRI has taken the initiative of giving free HPV vaccination, leading towards a healthier tomorrow for women and girls aged 9-26." "Every year, IVF Day is a strong reminder of how far reproductive medicine has come. It has made something that seemed impossible a reality for millions of parents who are hopeful. It's a day to honor the amazing mix of science, accuracy, and kindness that makes assisted reproductive technology possible. Each embryo is not only a possibility but also the result of years of hard work, new technology, and a commitment to giving hope a chance to grow. Medical science has come a long way since the first IVF baby was born decades ago. The journey to today's advanced methods shows this. IVF not only helps couples and people who can't have kids have kids, but it also makes them feel better emotionally. We celebrate hope today. Every ultrasound image of a consultation, procedure, or heartbeat gives us new hope. As science moves forward, the promise of being a parent grows. IVF Day isn't just about happy endings; it's also about strength, understanding, and never giving up on starting over, stated Dr. Parul Prakash, Senior Consultant, Head - Reproductive Medicine, IVF, Artemis Hospitals. So, if you want to experience the joy of parenthood but aren't sure how to plan or what to do, schedule a consultation today. Because IVF is more than simply a medical procedure, it is also a journey of resilience and the desire to experience the joy of parenting.
New Indian Express
10 hours ago
- Health
- New Indian Express
Experts call for HPV awareness to fight cervical cancer
HYDERABAD: Medical experts have voiced serious concern over the alarming rise in cervical cancer cases in India, primarily caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), despite it being a highly preventable disease through timely vaccination and regular screening. With over 51.4 crore women aged 15 and above at risk, the country reports 123,907 new cases and 77,348 deaths from cervical cancer every year, making it the second most common cancer among women. The issues were voiced during a panel discussion at the 'Conquer HPV & Cancer Conclave,' organised by the Serum Institute of India (SII) at a star hotel in Hyderabad on Thursday. The Serum Institute, in collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), has developed the country's first indigenous gender-neutral quadrivalent HPV vaccine, Cervavac. The vaccine offers protection against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18, with types 6 and 11 causing genital warts and types 16 and 18 responsible for cervical cancer. Cervavac is recommended for both girls and boys aged 9 to 26 years. Consultant gynaecologist and gynaecological oncologist at St. Theresa's Hospital and Asvins Hospital, Dr D Leela stated, 'While every HPV-positive case does not mean cervical cancer, counselling is important. Screening is crucial for sexually active women over 30, as 90% of individuals contract HPV at least once by this age. The concern lies in the remaining 10% where the infection becomes persistent,' she told TNIE.
The Hindu
a day ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Doctors stress the need for gender-neutral cervical cancer prevention strategy in India
For years, the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has been closely associated with preventing cervical cancer in women. However, doctors are now pushing for a more inclusive approach, urging that boys too be vaccinated to curb transmission and protect against several other cancers linked to the virus. At the Conquer HPV and Cancer Conclave, an initiative by the Serum Institute of India in Hyderabad on Thursday, doctors underscored the need to reframe HPV as a public health concern rather than solely a women's health issue. 'Why boys? Because they are the carriers. HPV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. In both Indian and Western statistics, about one in three boys are found to have the virus by the age of 15. While it may not cause immediate symptoms or health issues in boys, it is often passed on to girls, increasing their risk of cervical cancer,' said Dr. M. Surendranath, HoD, Paediatrics, DNB Faculty, Vijay Marie Hospital, Hyderabad. He pointed out that HPV is not limited to cervical cancer. 'It can also lead to penile cancer, anal cancer, and oropharyngeal (throat) cancer in men. Moreover, HPV types 6 and 11 cause genital warts, psychologically distressing, though not cancerous. Australia's decision to vaccinate boys under its national immunisation programme has significantly brought down cases of genital warts,' he said. Silent virus, late consequences One reason for the lack of awareness, doctors say, is that HPV doesn't show symptoms early on. 'It is unlike other viral infections where you get a fever or rash. In the case of HPV, most people don't even realise they've been infected. It can remain dormant in the body for decades and only manifest as cancer years later,' said Dr. D. Leela, consultant gynaecologist, St. Theresa's Hospital and Asvins Hospital, Hyderabad. Screening and prevention: Not just vaccines While vaccination is a crucial step in prevention, doctors highlighted the importance of screening, especially for women aged 30 and above. 'There are three levels of screening. The government-recommended method is VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid), where simple vinegar is applied to the cervix to check for abnormalities. Then there is the more familiar Pap smear or cytology. And finally, the most sensitive but costly option is the HPV DNA test, which detects the presence of the virus directly,' the doctor added. Vaccine targets and coverage The most commonly used HPV vaccines in India are quadrivalent, targeting types 6, 11, 16, and 18. While 6 and 11 are responsible for genital warts, 16 and 18 account for over 80% of cervical cancer cases. 'As far as genital warts go, they are relatively uncommon in India compared to Western countries. In our clinical experience, they account for about 5 to 10% of cases in gynaecological practice. Many of these patients go to dermatologists instead,' said Dr Surendranath.
North Wales Live
a day ago
- Health
- North Wales Live
Charity backs new drive to get everyone vaccinated against cancer
Health officials have urged hundreds of thousands of people to get a vaccine that protects against certain cancers. It comes amid warnings that more than 418,000 children have left school with no protection against human papillomavirus (HPV) in the last three years. The HPV vaccine is offered to boys and girls when they are in Year 8 and is key to wiping out cervical cancer in the UK. Around 13 high-risk types of HPV are known to cause 99.7% of cervical cancers. The jab also protects against genital warts and head and neck cancers, such as those in the mouth or throat. Now, GP practices in England will invite 16 to 25-year-olds to have the vaccine if records show they did not have it in school. According to NHS England, more than 418,000 children left school without having the jab in the last three years, with concerns there are many more people aged 16 to 25 who are not protected. Data shows that in the 2023/24 academic year, some 76.7% of girls and 71.2% of boys aged 14 to 15 were vaccinated against HPV by Year 10. Uptake in Year 8 increased to 72.9% among girls and 67.7% among boys, from 71.3% and 65.2% respectively a year earlier. The health service will aim to boost uptake among girls to 90% as part of plans to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040. It will also aim to increase the number of women attending cervical cancer screening appointments. John Butler, Consultant Gynaecological Oncology Surgeon at The Royal Marsden and Medical Director at the Lady Garden, said: "Cervical cancer - and other HPV related cancers - are often devastating diseases — but we have the power to eliminate them, through vaccination and screening. It's heartbreaking that so many young people are missing out on the protection the HPV vaccine offers, simply because uptake remains below NHS targets. Over 400,000 young people have left school unvaccinated in the last three years. That's why this new move to remind those who missed out at school is not just welcome - it could be lifesaving." Jenny Halpern Prince MBE, CEO & Co-Founder, The Lady Garden Foundation said: 'Everyone under 25 needs to have the HPV vaccine - not just females. The shocking figures released by the NHS today, revealing that over 400,000 children left school unvaccinated in the last three years alone, mean that so many young people are putting themselves at risk of cancers that they can protect themselves against. "The HPV vaccine protects against the human papillomavirus (HPV), a widespread virus that can cause cervical, vulval, vaginal, mouth, anal & penile cancers (plus genital warts). This safe and highly effective vaccine is given in schools in Year 8 and is available free on the NHS to anyone under the age of 25 from their GP (and pharmacies from 2026). "We urge all unvaccinated young people to book in as soon as possible with their GP. You don't have to wait to be invited. At The Lady Garden Foundation we are working to ensure that all young people (and their parents) understand the many benefits of the HPV vaccine in protecting against six different types of cancer - visiting Freshers' Fairs around the UK and delivering PHSE resources."
