Pakistan has officially launched its HPV vaccine program, aiming to protect millions of young girls from cervical cancer — a disease that continues to threaten women’s health nationwide. This initiative, backed by UNICEF, marks the country’s first large-scale national vaccination drive against cervical cancer.
The campaign began in September and will initially cover thousands of girls aged 9 to 14 years in Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Health teams are administering the vaccine in schools, community centers, and through mobile units, making access easier for families across the country.
According to health authorities, Pakistan has already received millions of HPV vaccine doses, with plans to secure a total of 13 million for the nationwide program. This aligns with the World Health Assembly’s global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer, which is the third most common cancer among women in Pakistan.
Cervical cancer remains a major concern, with more than 5,000 new cases reported annually and thousands of women losing their lives due to late diagnosis and limited screening facilities. Experts believe the HPV vaccine will significantly reduce these numbers and save countless lives.
Looking ahead, Pakistan plans to expand the HPV vaccination drive in 2026 and 2027 to ensure broader coverage and long-term protection for its female population. This historic initiative represents hope, progress, and a major step toward eliminating cervical cancer from the country.
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By making the HPV vaccine in Pakistan accessible, health officials are not only protecting young girls today but also securing a healthier future for generations to come.
