In a groundbreaking move to combat cervical cancer, Pakistan is launching its first-ever human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine campaign from September 15 to 27, 2025, targeting 13 million girls aged 9 to 14 across Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad Capital Territory, and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and funded by GAVI, The Vaccine Alliance, this initiative marks a pivotal moment in the country’s fight against one of its deadliest cancers. By training over 49,000 health workers and mobilizing a robust immunization strategy, Pakistan is setting the stage for a healthier future for its daughters.
The Cervical Cancer Crisis in Pakistan
Cervical cancer is a silent epidemic in Pakistan, ranking as the third most common cancer among women. With 73.8 million women aged 15 and older at risk, the country sees over 5,000 new cases annually, with a staggering 64% mortality rate—approximately 3,200 deaths each year. This high death toll, among the worst in South Asia, is largely due to late diagnoses and limited access to screening programs. A WHO study (2021-2023) across 18 healthcare facilities recorded 1,580 cases, but experts warn this is a significant undercount due to low screening rates and the absence of a national cervical cancer registry. Without intervention, modeling data project a tripling of the disease burden over the next 70 years, underscoring the urgency of this campaign.
Empowering Health Workers for Success
The backbone of this ambitious campaign is the training of over 49,000 health workers, including vaccinators, doctors, social mobilizers, and data entry operators. Running through August 2025, these cascade training sessions focus on microplanning, vaccine administration, and community engagement, ensuring a seamless rollout. WHO’s technical expertise supports every facet of the initiative, from data analysis to readiness assessments, in collaboration with Pakistan’s Federal Directorate of Immunization (FDI) and its Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). This partnership is not just about delivering vaccines—it’s about building a sustainable framework to protect future generations.
A Vision for Cervical Cancer Elimination
The campaign aligns with the World Health Assembly’s Global Strategy to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030, which sets ambitious targets: vaccinating 90% of girls by age 15, screening 70% of women, and treating 90% of those with pre-cancer or invasive cancer. Pakistan’s initiative is a critical step toward these goals, with the HPV vaccine offering a proven shield against the virus responsible for most cervical cancer cases. “This is an investment in the health and potential of our daughters,” said Dr. Soofia Yunus, Director General of FDI. “Pakistan is taking a big step to protect its future from cervical cancer.”
A Phased Approach for Nationwide Impact
The September 2025 campaign is just the beginning. Pakistan plans to expand the HPV vaccine rollout to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 2026 and Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan in 2027, integrating it into the national routine immunization program. This phased approach ensures equitable access across diverse regions, addressing logistical challenges while building on lessons learned. WHO Representative Dr. Dapeng Luo hailed the effort as “a transformative moment for public health in Pakistan,” emphasizing the importance of ensuring every girl can live free from the threat of cervical cancer.
Why This Matters: A Global and Local Perspective
Globally, cervical cancer claims over 340,000 lives annually, with low- and middle-income countries bearing the brunt due to limited healthcare access. Pakistan’s campaign is a beacon of hope, demonstrating how targeted interventions can shift the tide against preventable diseases. Locally, it empowers communities, reduces health disparities, and strengthens trust in public health systems. By prioritizing girls’ health, Pakistan is not only saving lives but also fostering economic and social stability, as healthier women contribute more fully to society.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Despite its promise, the campaign faces hurdles, including vaccine hesitancy, logistical complexities in remote areas, and the need for sustained funding. WHO and its partners are addressing these through community outreach and robust planning, but long-term success will require ongoing investment in screening and treatment infrastructure. The absence of a national cervical cancer registry remains a gap, but the current initiative lays the groundwork for improved data collection and monitoring.
Collective action
Pakistan’s HPV vaccination drive is a testament to the power of collective action. With WHO, GAVI, and the Ministry of Health working hand in hand, this campaign is poised to rewrite the narrative on cervical cancer in Pakistan. As Dr. Luo aptly stated, “Every girl deserves the chance to access lifesaving vaccines.” By supporting this initiative, Pakistan is not just protecting its daughters—it’s building a healthier, more equitable future for all.
