Feb 06, Kathmandu - Dankuta is set to launch an HPV vaccination program aimed at combating cervical cancer, according to the District Health Office.

The school-based vaccination initiative will be conducted from Magh 27 to 29 as part of the Full Immunization Campaign. The program is expected to benefit approximately 1,286 adolescent girls in the district. Of these, 1,257 are students enrolled in schools, while 29 are girls and young women outside of the school system.

District Health Chief Shrijana Banjade stated that the vaccination will target girls aged 10 to 14 years. All sixth-grade female students and out-of-school girls within the same age group will receive the vaccine.

Last year, 6,911 individuals in Dankuta received the HPV vaccine. Health officials emphasize that the vaccine plays a vital role in preventing cervical cancer.

Banjade highlighted that early screening can help detect and treat cancer effectively; however, screening rates in the community remain low. Currently, only 4% of women in Dankuta have undergone screening. She attributed the low participation to shame, embarrassment, and misconceptions about the vaccine.

The District Health Office has urged parents, schools, and the community to actively participate in the vaccination program to ensure its success.