KP to Launch Cervical Cancer Vaccination Campaign for Girls from Nov 2
PESHAWAR, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 17th Aug, 2026) The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department has announced a province-wide vaccination campaign against cervical cancer, with around 2.93 million girls aged 9 to 14 years set to receive the vaccine from November 2 to 14.
Key Points:
- More than 5,000 cervical cancer cases are reported in Pakistan every year, with around 3,000 women dying from the disease annually, according to WHO consultant Dr Rizwan.
- Dr Muhammad Ayaz emphasized that timely vaccination and regular screening could significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
- Dr Idrees stressed the need for preventive measures, describing the disease as a serious and potentially fatal health threat.
- UNICEF consultant Dr Kamran Qureshi noted that 162 countries have included the cervical cancer vaccine in their routine immunization programs.
- The vaccination will be administered to girls in schools and religious seminaries, with religious scholars and teachers involved in the campaign.
- The Health Department will establish committees to address concerns from parents who may decline vaccination.
- Media support is seen as crucial for creating awareness and ensuring the campaign’s success.
