What is the Cost of the Cervical Cancer Vaccine?

Affordable Cervical Cancer Vaccines – Cost Breakdown

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cervix. It is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It usually develops slowly and may not show any symptoms in the early stages. Over time, it can become more serious and even life-threatening if not treated early. Cervical cancer accounts for about 16.5% of all cancer cases in India, which makes it the second most prevalent cancer among women, apart from breast cancer.

What Causes Cervical Cancer?

A significant cause of cervical cancer is a long-lasting infection with certain types of HPV. Not all HPV infections lead to cancer, but some high-risk strains, especially HPV-16 and HPV-18, are known to cause most cervical cancer cases.

It is essential to know that HPV can affect both men and women. However, the HPV vaccine is commonly associated with preventing cervical cancer in women. It protects against several types of cancers in both men and women. Therefore, men also need to take the HPV vaccine.

How Can Cervical Cancer Be Prevented?

Here are some various ways to prevent cervical cancer:

1. HPV Vaccination

The most effective way to prevent HPV infections is by getting vaccinated. Different types of HPV vaccines are available in India, including a quadrivalent vaccine (which protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18) and a bivalent vaccine (which protects against HPV types 16 and 18).

2. Regular Screening

Screening tests, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, help detect abnormal cells, allowing for prevention and early treatment. The World Health Organisation recommends starting the screening around the age of 21 and repeating it regularly.

3. Safe Sex Practices

Using protection can be helpful to some extent. It can decrease the risk of HPV transmission. However, condoms do not completely protect against HPV transmission.

What are the Types of Vaccines Available in India?

These are the types of HPV vaccines available in India:

• Cervarix (Bivalent vaccine) - It protects against HPV types 16 and 18.
• Gardasil (Quadrivalent vaccine) - Protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18.
• Gardasil 9 (Nine-valent vaccine) - It protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58.
• Cervavac (Quadrivalent vaccine) - India’s first developed HPV vaccine, launched in 2023 by the Serum Institute of India. Cervavac is a game-changer because its price is comparatively lower than that of other international vaccines. It offers protection at a lower cost, making the vaccine more accessible to the general public.

What is the Cost of the HPV Vaccine in India?

The cost of the cervical cancer vaccine varies depending on the brand, location, and healthcare provider. Here is a rough idea of the cost of each type of vaccine available in India:

1. Cervarix

It is available in many private hospitals and clinics. Cervarix costs around Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 3,500 per dose, and individuals require 2 to 3 doses depending on their age. Therefore, the approximate total cost can be Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 7,000.

2. Gardasil

It is widely available in India. The cost per dose is around Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 4,000, and the required total doses are 2 to 3.

3. Gardasil 9

It is a well-known vaccine in India. This vaccine can be used in both males and females aged 9 to 45 years. According to the latest information, the cost per dose in India is Rs. 10,850.

4. Cervavac

It was launched as an affordable option for Indian families by the Serum Institute of India. The cost of the vaccine is Rs. 2,000 per dose. Two doses are required for both males and females aged between 9 and 26 years. Therefore, the total cost of this vaccine can be Rs. 4,000 for two doses.

Getting the vaccination on time can be life-saving. The prices of vaccines may vary from city to city and between public and private hospitals. However, early immunisation, especially for adolescents, can significantly increase the protection against cervical cancer.

Also Read:

→ How to Get Tested for Cancer Without Insurance

→ What are the Main Factors that Determine the Cost of Cancer Treatment

→ What are the Stages of Lung Cancer

→ What are the Stages of Ovarian Cancer

→ What Cancer is Covered by Critical Illness Insurance