First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari has praised the launch of Pakistan’s first national campaign to prevent cervical cancer. She described the initiative as a milestone for women’s health. She emphasized that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can protect young girls from cervical cancer.
A Call to Parents and Communities
Meanwhile, Aseefa urged parents nationwide to vaccinate their daughters aged between 9 and 14 years. She reminded families that cervical cancer remains the only form of cancer fully preventable through vaccination. Furthermore, she appealed to schools and communities to support this vital public health initiative.
“This campaign secures a healthier future for our daughters,” she declared. She stressed that collective support will ensure the program’s success.
Sindh Health Minister Leads the Launch
Furthermore, Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho inaugurated the campaign at Khatoon-e-Pakistan Girls School in Karachi. Federal health officials, WHO, UNICEF, and international NGOs attended the launch ceremony. Their participation highlighted the global significance of this health effort.
According to the Sindh Health Department, the HPV vaccine is available free of cost. Eligible girls between 9 and 14 years can access the vaccine at government schools and health centers.
National Rollout Across Provinces
Moreover, preparations for the nationwide campaign are complete. The vaccination drive will start today in Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad, and Azad Kashmir.
The campaign will continue from September 15 to 27. During this period, nearly 13 million girls will receive a single HPV vaccine dose. Vaccinations will be conducted at schools, madrasas, health facilities, and through mobile units.
Major Vaccine Allocation
Meanwhile, Punjab has received 8.8 million HPV vaccine doses. Sindh allocated 4 million doses. Azad Kashmir has received 349,000 doses, while Islamabad has 152,000 doses available.
Pakistan secured HPV vaccines worth 10 billion rupees from Gavi. Officials confirmed that the vaccination program will be implemented in three phases.
A Historic Step in Public Health
Notably, health experts believe this initiative represents a groundbreaking achievement for Pakistan’s healthcare sector. They note it directly targets one of the most preventable forms of cancer. With nationwide support, this campaign could save countless lives in the years ahead.
