RAWALPINDI: The District Health Authority (DHA) will start a vaccination campaign against cervical cancer from September 15 to 27 in Rawalpindi. The campaign will target 387,334 girls aged 9 to 14 years. The slogan of the campaign is “Protecting the Next Generation.”
Health officials said the campaign will cover all 212 union councils of the district. A total of 303 mobile outreach teams, 19 fixed vaccination centres, 322 vaccinators, and an equal number of assistants will serve the girls.
Additionally, 625 social mobilisers have been deployed to raise awareness in the community. To monitor the campaign, 212 first-level and 27 second-level supervisors have been appointed.
Around 5,700 girls are expected to be vaccinated daily at the centres. Focal persons will also be available to manage any possible side effects (AEFI). Special arrangements have been made for the safe disposal of medical waste during the campaign.
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The DHA urged parents and teachers to ensure that every eligible girl receives this life-saving vaccine. Officials stressed that children’s health is a shared responsibility and protecting it secures the future.
Experts Highlight Cervical Cancer Risks at Symposium
Meanwhile, a symposium on cervical cancer and HPV vaccination was held by the Gynaecology Department of Capital Hospital CDA, in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Federal Directorate of Immunisation (FDI). The event was held ahead of the nationwide HPV vaccination campaign.
Experts highlighted that Pakistan faces a serious cervical cancer problem, with around 5,000 new cases each year and one of the highest mortality rates in South Asia. They said late detection and lack of preventive services are major reasons, and immediate action is needed.
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Dr. Naeem Taj, Executive Director of CDA Hospital, urged early prevention through vaccination and regular screening, in line with WHO’s 90-70-70 strategy for eliminating cervical cancer. Dr. Soofia Yunus, Director General of FDI, stressed prioritising prevention over treatment, noting that strong preventive measures are essential to reduce the disease burden in Pakistan.
Dr. Sheeba Noreen, Head of Gynaecology at CDA Hospital, called for breaking the stigma around HPV vaccination, saying it saves lives and should not be linked to misconceptions. Dr. Attiya Naveed, Head of Paediatrics, explained the importance of vaccinating girls aged 9 to 14, when the immune response is strongest.
Dr. Urooj Yasir Khan highlighted that cervical cancer cases are likely underestimated in Pakistan due to the lack of a proper registry and stressed the need for better surveillance alongside vaccination.
The symposium concluded with an awareness walk and a call for community mobilisation to ensure vaccine access and screening for all, aiming to protect future generations and eliminate cervical cancer in the country.
