Do you know what Cervical Cancer is?
Cervical Cancer originates in the cells of the cervix, the lower, narrow portion of the uterus (womb) that connects it to the vagina (birth canal). This type of cancer typically progresses gradually over time.
Cervical Cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer deaths in women aged 15 to 44 years in India. This also the only cancer that is preventable.
More than 95% of cervical cancer cases are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). which can be prevented by a safe and effective vaccine. Rising incidents of cervical cancer in the past decade underscore the need to step up prevention efforts. HPV vaccines for adolescents and screening women for cervical cancer is a clear strategy for prevention enlisted by the World Health Organization.
Cervical Cancer is considered a disease of inequity, commonly seen among disempowered and marginalized women from low and middle income countries. The high occurrence of cervical cancer and related deaths in India is attributed to low awareness, poor screening, low awareness, social inequality, stigma, and poverty. Cervical cancer awareness in the Indian community has been alarmingly low over the years despite the country having a high disease burden.
FPA India stands as a leading civil society organization dedicated to providing vital health services with a focus on sexual and reproductive health. Operating in more than 18 states and union territories across India, the organization targets regions characterized by low developmental indicators and significant gender disparities. FPA India’s mission is to address these critical health needs and contribute to the overall well-being of communities in underserved areas.
FPA India works for sexual and reproductive health and rights of all, especially the young and the marginalized. Prevention of cervical cancer is an integral component of the comprehensive, rights based SRH Programmes we deliver.
FPA India will focus on prevention strategies -promotion of HPV vaccination among girls and screening of women for cervical cancer along with treatment of precancerous lesions. In case of diagnosis, FPA India will have a strong referral and follow up strategy to support treatment.
In association with the TATA Mumbai Marathon 2024, FPA India plans to raise Rupees One Crore for the campaign ‘RACE TO ERASE CERVICAL CANCER’.
Through this campaign, FPA India will reach out to 20,000 women and girls to implement a 5-pronged intervention:
- awareness of cervical cancer
- prevention through HPV vaccine
- screening for cervical cancer
- treatment of precancerous lesions
- referral for cancer treatment if diagnosed.
For this we would be grateful if you could kindly help us with a financial assistance so that we can start our program implementation as soon as possible. Your help will help us to work towards our goal and benefit the society in short time.