Prevent Cervical Cancer
In alignment with the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Strategy to eliminate cervical cancer, which aims to vaccinate 90% of girls with the HPV vaccine by age 15, Tuhina Chatterjee has launched the "Prevent Cervical Cancer"initiative. This project is focused on making her adopted village, Khas Sankdaha, and its surrounding areas in West Bengal, India, a cervical cancer-free zone.
Recognizing cervical cancer as a preventable disease, Tuhina's initiative targets two key pillars of the WHO strategy: raising awareness and increasing access to HPV vaccination. The campaign began with door-to-door awareness drives and community camps, educating residents about cervical cancer, its risks, and the proven efficacy of the HPV vaccine in preventing the disease.
Building on the success of these efforts, Tuhina has also organized vaccination camps in Khas Sankdaha, successfully vaccinating 173 girls aged 9–14. These camps have been instrumental in protecting young girls from HPV, the leading cause of cervical cancer.
The initiative has been executed in partnership with key organizations such as the Health & Ecodefence Society, Cancer Foundation of India, and Naba Diganta, along with the support of prominent individuals dedicated to public health.
Alignment with WHO and UN Sustainability Goals:
1. WHO Cervical Cancer Elimination Goals:
By promoting awareness and increasing vaccination rates, the project directly contributes to the WHO target of 90% HPV vaccination coverage for girls by age 15.
2. UN SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being:
The initiative prioritizes preventive healthcare, reducing the incidence of cervical cancer and promoting overall community well-being.
3. UN SDG 5: Gender Equality:
By focusing on the health of girls and women, the project addresses gender disparities in access to healthcare and prioritizes the empowerment of women through education and preventive care.
4. UN SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities:
By bringing HPV vaccination to marginalized and underserved communities, the initiative tackles systemic healthcare inequities, ensuring equal access to lifesaving interventions.
The "Prevent Cervical Cancer" initiative not only saves lives but also paves the way for a healthier, more informed community. Tuhina's efforts demonstrate the power of grassroots action in achieving global health objectives and creating a future free from cervical cancer.
