Affordable, made-in-India HPV test kits rolled out to fight cervical cancer
HOW THE INDIGENOUS HPV KITS WORKThe newly validated kits use a chip-based real-time PCR (RT-PCR) technique, which is known for its accuracy and speed.These kits are designed to detect eight high-risk HPV genotypes, which are responsible for over 96% of cervical cancer cases globally.The evaluation of these kits was carried out by a team of experts at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi, in collaboration with National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR) Noida, and National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health (NIRRCH) Mumbai, along with support from the WHO International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). "The key feature of these kits is the inclusion of only the seven-eight most common cancer-causing types that will allow a very efficient and cost-effective screening programme which will be most suitable for India," Dr. Neerja Bhatla, former head of the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at AIIMS, Delhi and chief coordinator of the programme, told PTI.advertisementWhat sets these tests apart is their ability to be used as point-of-care tools, meaning they can deliver results quickly and can be used even in resource-limited or rural healthcare settings. This is particularly important in India, where access to diagnostic labs can be a major barrier."Given the enhancement of RTPCR-based diagnostic facilities across the nation in the post-COVID era, the introduction of sensitive RTPCR-based HPV testing kits might prove to be cost effective screening method over classical HPV DNA and Pap smear for deployment in the national cancer screening programme," Dr Bhatla said.A PUBLIC HEALTH THREATHPV (human papillomavirus) is a common viral infection that spreads through skin-to-skin contact, quite often via sexual contact. The virus is so common that nearly all sexually active individuals will contract it at some point in their lives, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). While most HPV are harmless, some virus variants pose severe health problems leading to various forms of cancer, including cervical cancer.Cervical cancer is a serious public health issue in India, which accounts for nearly one in every four cervical cancer cases globally. Each year, over 1.23 lakh women are newly diagnosed, and nearly 77,000 women lose their lives to the disease.
Cervical cancer is a serious public health issue in India, which accounts for nearly one in every four cervical cancercases globally. ()
What makes this disease more concerning is that cervical cancer is preventable. While not all cervical cancer cases are because of HPV infection, most cases are caused by the virus. Therefore, early and regular screening for HPV can help catch the disease before it becomes deadly.THe WHO recently recommended that all countries adopt HPV testing as the primary screening method. According to the health agency's global strategy, women should undergo two HPV tests in their lifetime, once at the age of 35 and again at 45.The target is to screen 70% of eligible women by 2030, which would drastically reduce cervical cancer deaths.'A STEP FORWARD IN PREVENTIVE CARE'Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh underlined the growing importance of preventive healthcare and India's efforts to become a global leader in this space.At the event where the two made-in-India HPV testing kits designed for quick screening of cervical cancer were launched, Jitendra Singh said it was the right time to acknowledge India's growing success in scientific innovation, especially in the healthcare sector.advertisementHe cited the development of the world's first DNA vaccine for Covid-19, which was also made in India back in 2021, as a major achievement that brought international recognition and helped shift global perceptions.
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh underlined the growing importance of preventive healthcare at the launch of two made-in-India HPV testing kits. (Photo: Department of Biotechnology)
"India was once seen as a country that neither focused on preventive nor curative healthcare. That perception is changing," he said, also mentioning Nafithromycin, the country's first indigenous antibiotic, and a gene therapy trial for haemophilia, the results of which were published in the New England Journal of Medicine.He credited these milestones to the combined efforts of public institutions and private companies, describing it as a "whole-of-science and whole-of-government" approach.The current methods of screening for cervical cancer include Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA), Papanicolaou test (Pap test or Pap smear) and HPV DNA testing. These tests are costly and time-consuming, and not always sensitive enough, said Singh.The new HPV test kits are faster, more affordable, and suitable for use in remote areas.Trending Reel
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
2 hours ago
- Business Standard
Corona Remedies acquires 7 pharma brands from Bayer India, plans expansion
Ahmedabad-based Corona Remedies on Thursday announced an expansion of its pharmaceutical portfolio, acquiring seven brands from the pharmaceutical division of Bayer in India, effective from 16 July. This move marks Corona Remedies' fourth acquisition from a multinational corporation. The company did not disclose the value of the deal. The acquisition includes Noklot in the cardiology segment and six women's healthcare brands — Fostine, Luprofact, Menodac, Ovidac, Spye and Vageston. This portfolio expansion marks Corona's entry into the Rs 1,507-crore anti-platelet monotherapy market, which is growing at 8 per cent annually, and deepens its footprint in the Rs 1,862-crore gonadotrophin and progesterone hormone segment, used primarily in infertility treatment and pregnancy management. When contacted for financial details of the deal, the company stated that it was unable to disclose them at this time as it has filed for an initial public offering (IPO). The company plans to integrate the newly acquired brands into its existing operations and leverage its extensive sales and distribution network to ensure wider reach across metro, semi-metro, urban and rural regions. Corona Remedies said the brands are expected to deliver growth under its stewardship. GCV Life served as the advisor for the transaction. Founded in 2004, Corona Remedies is a branded pharmaceutical company focused on therapeutic areas such as women's healthcare, cardio-diabetes, urology and pain management. The company employs over 4,000 people and operates two Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR)-approved research and development centres.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
New study links oral hygiene to cancer risk: 10 tips to protect your oral health
We often view oral hygiene as a cosmetic habit, important for white teeth and fresh breath, but new research suggests it may be far more vital to our health. A recent commentary in The Lancet Regional Health, Southeast Asia links poor oral hygiene to a higher risk of cancer, especially in head and neck cases. Professionals from AIIMS urge a shift in focus: from daily brushing to broader public health efforts like school-based dental care and stricter sugar marketing regulations. As cancer rates rise in Southeast Asia, maintaining good oral health could be a simple yet powerful tool for prevention and survival. What the study says: Link between oral hygiene and cancer outcomes In a commentary published in The Lancet Regional Health , Southeast Asia, AIIMS oncologists Dr Abhishek Shankar and Dr Vaibhav Sahni discussed the rising body of evidence linking oral bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia with higher cancer incidence and poorer survival outcomes. The researchers noted that routine dental checkups are associated with reduced cancer mortality, underlining that oral hygiene should be integrated into standard oncology care. With the cancer burden increasing in Southeast Asia and preventative care often neglected, they stress the urgent need for structured public health programmes that prioritise oral health. Some of the interventions they proposed include School-based toothbrushing programmes Oral rinse-based point-of-care testing for gum disease detection Distribution of free toothbrushes and toothpaste Health warnings on high-sugar food packaging Incentives for educators and families to promote oral care Dr Shankar noted that 'oral healthcare plays a significant role in enhancing health-related outcomes, including those related to cancer survivorship.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Many Are Watching Tariffs - Few Are Watching What Nvidia Just Launched Seeking Alpha Read More Undo His colleague, Dr Sahni, also warned against the marketing of sugary foods using cartoon characters, calling for region-specific research to better inform prevention strategies. 10 Tips to maintain your oral hygiene Brush your teeth twice a day Brushing your teeth in the morning and before bed is crucial. Night brushing removes plaque, food debris, and bacteria that build up during the day, reducing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Use proper brushing technique A rushed brushing job can leave plaque behind. Use a soft-bristled brush in gentle, circular motions for at least two minutes. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can erode enamel and damage gums. Don't forget your tongue Bacteria can accumulate on your tongue, contributing to bad breath and oral health problems. Gently brushing your tongue every time you brush your teeth helps keep your whole mouth clean. Choose fluoride toothpaste Fluoride is essential for strengthening tooth enamel and protecting against decay. Always choose a fluoride toothpaste, regardless of the brand or flavour. Floss daily Flossing helps clean areas your toothbrush can't reach between the teeth and under the gumline. Daily flossing reduces plaque buildup and lowers your risk of cavities and gum disease. Rinse with a mouthwash A fluoride-based mouthwash can further protect your teeth and freshen your breath. Use it at a different time of day than brushing, such as after meals, to avoid rinsing away fluoride from toothpaste. Drink plenty of water Water, especially if fluoridated, helps rinse away food particles and maintain saliva flow, which is vital for neutralising harmful acids in the mouth. Limit sugary and acidic foods Frequent consumption of sugar and acidic drinks like sodas, tea, and citrus can erode enamel. Try to reduce their intake and rinse your mouth with water after consuming them. Schedule regular dental checkups Visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and exam. Dentists can detect early signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues before they become serious. Maintain a complete oral care routine Good oral health involves consistent habits. Brushing, flossing, tongue cleaning, and regular dentist visits form the foundation of long-term dental wellness. Also Read: Alzheimer's disease: Causes, early symptoms, and 11 lifestyle changes that could help prevent it
NDTV
2 hours ago
- NDTV
How To Eat Amla For Maximum Health Benefits: Nutritionists Say...
A superfood that no one complains about, amla has been around for centuries. This tiny fruit can be consumed in many ways - from chutneys to curries - it is incredibly versatile. And why not? It offers a wide range of health benefits and adds a sharp, sour flavour to both food and drinks. But while many of us grew up eating it raw or sweetened into murabba, there is one traditional method that is often overlooked: fermentation. It may sound like something your grandmother swore by, but this process can actually make amla far more effective for your health. Want to know how to do it at home? Read on. 5 Health Benefits Of Eating Amla Daily 1. Boosts Immune Health Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function. According to Dr Komal Bhadouria, Nutritionist at SCI International Hospital, New Delhi, a single serving of amla can meet up to 46 per cent of your daily vitamin C requirement. 2. Supports Healthy Digestion Amla is not only rich in vitamin C but also packed with soluble fibre. This helps in smoother digestion and may provide relief from common digestive problems such as bloating or acidity. 3. Helps Manage Blood Sugar Levels Amla is known to slow down the absorption of carbohydrates due to its soluble fibre content. This helps prevent sudden spikes in blood glucose, making it a helpful addition to a diabetic diet. 4. Reduces Hair Fall And Dandruff Delhi-based weight management expert Gargi Sharma says, " Amla can be used to prepare home remedies for curing various conditions such as cold and cough, mouth ulcers, dandruff and more." Regular use of amla can help control dandruff and reduce hair fall, especially when included in your diet or haircare routine. 5. Improves Skin Texture And Elasticity The high vitamin C content in amla supports collagen production, which may slow signs of ageing and help maintain smooth, glowing skin. Regular consumption can be a natural way to improve your skincare results. Why Fermenting Amla Makes It More Effective While most people consume amla raw or cooked, nutritionist Shalini Sudhakar suggests fermenting amla to enhance its benefits—especially for better vitamin C and iron absorption. This easy process increases the fruit's bioavailability and adds gut-friendly bacteria too. How To Ferment Amla At Home: Cut the amla or pierce each fruit with a fork. Soak the pieces in water with a pinch of salt. Let them sit at room temperature for 24 hours. After fermenting, store in the refrigerator and use within one week. What Is The Best Way To Eat Fermented Amla According to Sudhakar, you can consume three fermented amlas daily. These can be eaten as is, added to salads, or juiced. If juicing, make sure to retain the pulp for its fibre content. Which Is Better For Digestion And Gut Health—Fresh Or Pickled Amla? While fresh amla is loaded with vitamin C, pickled or fermented amla has an extra edge. 'Pickled amla undergoes a fermentation process that introduces probiotics—healthy bacteria that support digestion and improve gut health.' This makes fermented amla a smarter choice for anyone looking to support their digestive system naturally. Just keep an eye on the amount of salt and oil used if you are going the traditional pickling route. What Does Science Say About Pickled Amla And Its Benefits? It is not just an old-school kitchen habit. There is real research behind it. Studies show that fermentation enhances antioxidant levels and boosts probiotic content in amla. LAB-fermented amla (lactic acid bacteria) shows increased phenolic and flavonoid compounds, higher antioxidant potential, and stable probiotic counts even after refrigeration. So yes, science backs that gut-friendly kick you get from fermented amla. How Long Does An Amla Pickle Last? If you are making a traditional amla pickle, it can stay good for six months to a year—either at room temperature or in the fridge, depending on how it is stored. But if you are trying the simpler quick-salt ferment method mentioned earlier, keep it refrigerated after 24 hours and finish it within a week. That way, the probiotics stay active and the taste remains fresh. How To Add Amla To Your Diet Every Day 1. Use It In Salads Switch your usual lemon dressing with amla juice. It adds a similar tang while offering more vitamin C and immunity support. 2. Add To Tempering (Tadka) Once fermented, chopped amla pieces can be added to your daily tadka. The change in flavour is subtle, but the nutritional value gets a real lift. 3. Infuse Herbal Teas Drop a chopped piece of amla into your herbal tea as it brews. It adds both flavour and extra antioxidants. 4. Make Fresh Amla Juice Amla juice is widely known to help fight cold and cough. Juice it fresh, mix with a touch of honey, and drink it on an empty stomach. 5. Blend Into Chutney An easy way to boost your nutrient intake is through a quick amla chutney. It pairs well with most Indian meals and requires minimal prep.
