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Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in Nepal. Every day, an estimated four women lose their lives to this preventable disease. However, with the introduction of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, Nepal is taking a historic step toward eliminating cervical cancer.
What is the HPV Vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is designed to protect against the human papillomavirus, a viral infection that spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity. HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer, along with other types of cancers and genital warts. Vaccinating girls at an early age can significantly reduce the risk of HPV-related diseases later in life.
Nepal’s HPV Vaccination Campaign
On February 4, 2025 (World Cancer Day), Nepal is set to launch a nationwide HPV vaccination campaign with the support of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, WHO, and UNICEF. The campaign aims to vaccinate more than 1.6 million adolescent girls aged 10–14 years in both schools and communities.
The government has also announced that the HPV vaccine will be included in Nepal’s routine immunization program, ensuring that future generations of girls receive timely protection against cervical cancer.
Why a Single-Dose Vaccine?
Recent evidence from the WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) suggests that a single dose of the HPV vaccine provides comparable protection to the previously recommended two or three-dose schedules. Based on this, Nepal has adopted the single-dose strategy for girls aged 10–14 years, making the vaccination campaign easier and more cost-effective.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
- Girls aged 9–14 years (recommended before sexual activity begins).
- Older females (15–25 years) may receive two doses.
- Women above 25 years can take the vaccine if they test negative for HPV DNA.
The Need for HPV Vaccination in Nepal
- Cervical cancer is the second-most common cancer in Nepal.
- The cervical cancer incidence rate is 16.4 per 100,000 women, which is four times higher than WHO's elimination target.
- More than 700 women seek treatment for cervical cancer annually at BP Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital alone.
- Up to 80% of cervical cancer cases can be prevented through early screening and vaccination.
Challenges in Cervical Cancer Prevention
Despite efforts in cervical cancer screening, several barriers exist in Nepal:
✔ Limited access to screening facilities in rural areas.
✔ Lack of awareness and cultural stigma around cervical health.
✔ Financial constraints limiting HPV testing and follow-up care.
✔ Shortage of trained healthcare professionals for screening and treatment.
To overcome these challenges, Nepal must expand screening services, invest in affordable HPV testing, and train more healthcare workers.
A Historic Milestone for Nepal
The introduction of the HPV vaccine is a major milestone in Nepal’s commitment to eliminate cervical cancer. This campaign not only aligns with the Global Strategy for Cervical Cancer Elimination but also strengthens Nepal’s public health system.
With nationwide vaccination, increased awareness, and improved screening programs, Nepal is moving towards a cervical cancer-free future. Every girl vaccinated today is a step toward saving lives tomorrow!