As part of primary prevention of cervical cancer, India has introduced HPV vaccination through the universal immunization framework. The recommended target age group for HPV vaccination is:

• A Newborn girls at birth along with BCG
• B All women aged 25 to 45 years regardless of screening status
• C Girls aged 9 to 14 years, preferably before sexual debut ✓
• D Girls aged 15 to 20 years only after a negative Pap smear

Explanation

HPV vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, that is, before sexual debut. WHO and national recommendations therefore target girls aged 9 to 14 years as the priority cohort, with a two-dose schedule (or a single dose per recent WHO position). Vaccination does not replace screening, which must continue in vaccinated cohorts. Adult vaccination after 25 years and neonatal administration are not recommended strategies.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.