Awareness of Cervical Cancer and HPV Vaccination
Recognizing January as Global Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, designated by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Rotary Club of Belur, in collaboration with Narayana Hospital, Howrah, proudly inaugurates the ‘Cervical Cancer Awareness and Prevention’ Project. This initiative aims to shed light on the preventable and curable nature of cervical cancer, especially in low and middle-income countries where it remains a significant health burden for women. Mr. Hira Lal Yadav, Rotary District Governor 3291, expressed his delight in witnessing the Rotary Club of Belur and its partner clubs embark on a commendable initiative at the onset of the New Year. This project aims to significantly reduce the incidence of cancer among women in our community. Mr. Yadav emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, stating, “Rotary acknowledges the transformative power of partnerships in creating a positive impact on public health. In alignment with this ethos, Rotary has joined forces with Narayana Hospital, Howrah, for a vital campaign dedicated to promoting awareness about cervical cancer.”
Mr. Yadav articulated, “Together, we are dedicated to empowering communities through education, prevention, and facilitating access to essential healthcare services.” This joint endeavour reflects Rotary’s commitment to fostering a healthier society through collective action and underscores the significance of collaborative initiatives in addressing critical health issues. The project chair, Mr Vishnu Dhandhania of RC Belur said “The primary activities of the project encompass parental awareness campaigns, administering HPV vaccinations, and disseminating knowledge for long-term sustainability. With a commitment to make a tangible impact in the lives of rural women, the project targets government schools in rural districts surrounding Kolkata, covering entire Rotary district 3291. Over the next year, the goal is to vaccinate 2000 girls aged 9-14 against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and extend these efforts to underserved communities through subsequent projects.”
Dr. Kaustav Basu, Senior Consultant in Gynaecologic Oncology and Robotic Surgery at Narayana Hospital, Howrah, stressed that Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination plays a pivotal role in preventing cervical cancer. We should also make people aware about the importance of screening of cervical cancer. There are two very specific tests – PAP smear & Colposcopy which help in the detection of early Cervical Cancer and Pre Cancer. Cancer detected early increases the chances of survival. Narayana Hospital, Howrah as a part of this project will reach out to schools and organise awareness sessions on Cervical Cancer – Prevention & also perform the HPV vaccination drive where children will be vaccinated at no additional costs. Doctors from Narayana Hospital, Howrah will visit different schools in and around Kolkata for awareness sessions which will highlight the importance of HPV vaccine in children for prevention & also the importance of screening to detect cancer at an early stage. Schools have already been approached for this vaccination & awareness drive where parents of children & also teachers of schools will be briefed about cervical cancer. This drive will be done throughout this month & also in February as a part of the World Cancer Day awareness drive. Mr. Amar Malhotra, President, RC Belur, adds, “In a collaborative effort, the Rotary Club of Belur joins hands with international Rotary Clubs, including Singapore Heartland and Singapore, along with four Kolkata-based Rotary Clubs – Calcutta Chowrenghee, Hooghly, Calcutta East Central, Chandannagar, and the dynamic Young Indians (the youth wing of CII). This collaboration reflects our commitment to creating a healthier future for all. Through such collaborative efforts, we can contribute significantly to the global fight against cervical cancer.”
According to Mr. Ashim Kumar, Facility Director of Narayana Hospital, Howrah, “Our partnership with Rotary reflects our commitment to community health. Early detection is key in the fight against cervical cancer, and we are proud to contribute to this vital cause.”