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. In India, cervical cancer accounts for approximately 16.5% of all cancer cases among women, making it the second most common cancer in women, after breast cancer. Early prevention and timely vaccination play a vital role in reducing the disease burden.

What Causes Cervical Cancer?

One of the primary causes of cervical cancer is a persistent infection with high‑risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV). While most HPV infections resolve on their own, certain strains—especially HPV‑16 and HPV‑18—are responsible for the majority of 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, HPV vaccination is recommended for both genders.

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), nine-valent vaccines (cover additional cancer‑causing HPV types), and a bivalent vaccine (which protects against HPV types 16 and 18).
2. Regular Screening
   Screening tests, such as Pap smears and HPV DNA tests, help detect abnormal cells, allowing for prevention and early treatment. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends beginning cervical cancer screening around the age of 21 years and continuing at regular intervals.
3. Safe Sex Practices
   Using protection can be helpful to some extent. It can decrease the risk of HPV transmission. However, condoms do not offer complete protection against HPV, reinforcing the importance of vaccination.

What are the Types of Vaccines Available in India?

• Cervarix (Bivalent vaccine) - Protects against HPV types 16 and 18.
• Gardasil (Quadrivalent vaccine) - Protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18.
• Gardasil 9 (Nine-valent vaccine) - 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
   Available in many private hospitals and clinics. Costs around Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 3,500 per dose, with 2 to 3 doses required depending on age. Approximate total cost: Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 7,000.
2. Gardasil
   Widely available in India. Costs Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 4,000 per dose, with 2 to 3 doses required.
3. Gardasil 9
   Can be used in both males and females aged 9 to 45 years. Cost per dose in India: Rs. 10,850.
4. Cervavac
   Launched by the Serum Institute of India as an affordable option. Costs Rs. 2,000 per dose. Two doses required for males and females aged 9 to 26 years. Approximate total cost: Rs. 4,000.

Many ask, Is HPV vaccine covered by health insurance in India? Some health insurance plans in India provide vaccination coverage, including HPV; however, it is offered as an add-on or after a waiting period.

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