HPV vaccination drive in Kanpur

More than 500 girls have benefitted in a cervical cancer vaccination drive conducted in two phases by RC Kanpur North, RID 3110, in a joint initiative with RCs Kanpur and Kanpur Virat.

While the first dose of HPV vaccination was administered in November last year, the follow-up second doses were completed in April and May this year. “Over 500 young girls in the age group of 9–14 years walked into these camps with uncertainty but walked out protected, their future a little safer, their families a little stronger,” said Nishant Vadera, president, RC Kanpur North.

The vaccination sites were turned into spaces of awareness creation as medical teams screened girls, “trained volunteers and doctors spoke to parents, easing their worries and educating them about cervical cancer and the need to take preventive steps,” he said. Parents listened, asked questions, and left with more than just pamphlets. “They left with peace of mind. For many mothers, it was the first time anyone had spoken to them about cervical cancer, and the realisation that their daughters were being protected free of cost brought tears of relief.”

Encouraged by positive feedback, the lead club is planning to expand the HPV vaccination campaign into rural areas and introduce screening camps for women, ensuring that no woman, young or old, is left behind in the fight against cervical cancer. While the local schools identified the beneficiaries, the project was funded through CSR contributions and by donors.