Punjab Leads Pakistan in Cervical Cancer Prevention with HPV Vaccine Integration
Punjab Takes a Historic Step in Healthcare
Punjab has made a groundbreaking advancement in Pakistan’s healthcare sector by officially adding the cervical cancer vaccine to its routine immunisation programme.
This step ensures that the HPV vaccine becomes a permanent part of preventive healthcare for young girls across the province.
Punjab Achieves 90% Vaccination Coverage
In a major public health milestone, more than 6.7 million girls aged 9–14 have been successfully vaccinated against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) — the primary cause of cervical cancer.
With an impressive 90% coverage rate, Punjab has positioned itself as a national leader in the fight against this preventable disease.
HPV Vaccine Now Part of Routine Immunisation
Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir officially announced that the HPV vaccine has now been included in the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI).
From now on, all nine-year-old girls will receive the HPV vaccine as part of their regular preventive immunisation schedule.
With this addition, the HPV vaccine has become the 13th vaccine under Punjab’s EPI — marking a significant enhancement of the province’s healthcare system.
Cervical Cancer: A Major Health Concern in Pakistan
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women aged 15 to 44 in Pakistan. Unlike many other cancers, it is largely preventable through timely vaccination.
The HPV vaccine is globally recognised for its safety and efficacy and is certified by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Global Recognition and Pakistan’s Leadership
The HPV vaccine is already part of the national immunisation schedules in 147 countries.
In the Muslim world, nations such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Libya, Kuwait, and Morocco have also integrated this vaccine into their public healthcare systems.
By joining this global movement, Punjab is reinforcing its commitment to modern healthcare standards, preventive medicine, and women’s health.
This initiative reflects Pakistan’s growing focus on disease prevention and long-term public health improvements.
- Over 6.7 million girls vaccinated in Punjab
- 90% coverage — highest in Pakistan
- HPV vaccine now part of routine immunisation (EPI)
- Strong focus on women’s health & cervical cancer prevention
