Latest news with #HumanPapillomavirus
India Gazette
12 hours ago
- Health
- India Gazette
Delhi HC extends Geeta Arora's suspension of sentence till next date
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): The Delhi High Court on Friday extended the interim suspension granted to Geeta Arora alias Sonu Punjaban on health grounds till July 22. Her appeal against conviction is also pending. She is admitted to Mehta Hospital in Saket. Justice Renu Bhatnagar extended the interim suspension of sentence granted to Geeta Arora alias Sonu Punjaban till the next date as listed in the application, along with the main appeal for hearing on July 22. She has moved an application seeking extension of the interim suspension of sentence for a further 60 days on medical grounds. She is suffering from Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is associated with the potential development of cancer. Her counsel submitted that she has been diagnosed with HPV (Human Papillomavirus), a high-risk viral infection associated with potential cancer development. It was further submitted that the appellant Sonu Punjaban is presently admitted in Mehta Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, for ongoing treatment. A status report has been filed by the Delhi police verifying the medical documents produced by Sonu Punjaban. Additional Public Prosecutor (APP) for the State submitted that the treatment the appellant getting is available at AIIMS. While in judicial custody, she was receiving treatment at AIIMS, which is a premier government medical institution. APP further submitted as per the medical prescription submitted by the applicant, she was advised to report for a follow-up consultation at AIIMS on May 26. However, to date, no follow-up medical record or prescription from AIIMS has been placed on record to demonstrate that the applicant complied with the said advice, APP added. It was also contended that the appellant was directed to surrender on June 21 at 5 PM. On June 20, she got herself admitted to Mehta Hospital, a private hospital, to avoid compliance with the surrender order. The medical prescription of her condition by the said hospital appears to be exaggerated, the prosecution said. Her sentence was suspended on May 19, which was extended from time to time by the court. She filed an appeal in 2020 challenging her conviction and sentence in a case related to the Immoral Trade Practices Act and other offences. (ANI)
Metro
3 days ago
- Health
- Metro
Everything you need to know about the new NHS home smear tests
While nobody likes going for a smear test, screenings are vital in preventing cervical cancer. Despite the fact cervical screenings save thousands of lives each year in the UK, though, uptake has gradually declined, and nearly a third of eligible women in England didn't attend their most recent test. The drop has been blamed – when it comes to younger women in particular – on embarrassment, fears over the test causing pain, and a lack of convenient appointments. So in an effort to combat barriers and potentially reach an additional 400,000 women in England every year, the NHS is set to roll out 'groundbreaking' new DIY screening kits. After a trial which saw 27,000 YouScreen kits issued to patients who were overdue a smear across London GPs, 85% of those offered one accepted and 56% returned a self-sample. Lead investigator Dr Anita Lim, from King's College London, said: 'Self-sampling has been hailed as a game-changer. 'It is crucial we make cervical screening easier… to help protect more people from this highly preventable cancer. The YouScreen trial has given us the evidence we need to demonstrate that self-sampling helps get more women screened.' How do these home kits work, though, and how can you get one? Dr Raj Arora, a GP specialising in women's health, skincare and mental health, tells 'Essentially these kits are looking to detect Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that causes most cervical cancers.' They look similar to a Covid-19 lateral flow test, with a long swab which is entered into the vagina. The sample is then put into a test tube and sent to a lab. 'Medical professionals will be able to detect HPV cells to understand if the patient is at risk or suffering from cervical cancer,' Dr Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, tells 'If HPV cells are detected, the patient will be contacted for an in-person cervical screening.' According to Dr Raj, 'a self-test means that the patient has more control over any potential discomfort and also the test itself can be quicker to carry out,' while Dr Grant highlights: 'Unlike GP smear tests, at-home swabs don't need to touch the cervix, making the process much more painless for women.' As well as being more convenient, the great news about these self-screenings is that they're just as precise, and pick up the same abnormalities, as tests carried out in your doctor's surgery. There is a caveat, though. 'Studies have shown a similar accuracy to in-clinic cervical screening as long as the test is carried out correctly,' says Dr Raj. Dr Grant agrees, adding: 'Accurate results largely depend on the user's ability to follow the instructions and correctly collect the swab.' If the results are of concern or the home test hasn't been administered correctly, further examination by a GP or nurse may be required. To get the right results, it's vital you follow the instructions on your cervical self-screening kit carefully. Dr Grant advises caution when handling the sample, commenting: 'As soon as the swab is collected, it should be carefully placed in the provided packaging to avoid skewing the results, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis. 'It's also important to ensure that you rotate the swab for the instructed period of time (around 20-30 seconds) or 5-6 times,' says Dr Raj. The Department of Health confirmed in a recent announcement that these kits will be available through the NHS from January 2026, and will be offered to women in England who have rarely or never attended cervical screening. More Trending In the meantime, Home HPV tests can be purchased online through providers such as Check4Cancer and Superdrug Online Doctor. However, these aren't approved as part of the UK's cervical screening programme, so you should still attend a smear test when you're invited by your GP. View More » Dr Grant says: 'Ultimately, women should choose the testing method that best suits their needs and provides the most comfort. However, the importance of regular screening, be that at home or with a GP, should never be undermined.' Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: Jessie J shares health update with a trigger warning after breast cancer operation MORE: The biggest pros and cons of weight loss jabs as NHS begins mass Mounjaro rollout MORE: Everything we know so far about the NHS maternity investigation Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
The Hindu
4 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Doctors come together in Bengaluru to create awareness about HPV associated cancers
City-based oncologists and paediatricians came together on a common platform on Tuesday to discuss the public health implications of Human Papillomavirus (HPV). The doctors, who participated in 'Conquer HPV and Cancer Conclave 2025' in Bengaluru, emphasised that HPV is not limited to cervical cancer. It is also associated with cancers of the vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and oropharynx, affecting both men and women. The speakers highlighted the pressing need for awareness, the importance of reaching both adolescents and parents, and the role of healthcare providers in guiding preventive care. With peak HPV infection occurring between ages 15 to 25, early awareness and timely preventive action are essential. With an affordable HPV vaccine now available, it has become easier to protect every individual from HPV associated cancers, the doctors said. Moderated by Bhaskar Shenoy, head of Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases Division at Manipal Hospitals, the conclave was held as part of a nationwide public health initiative led by the Serum Institute of India (SII). India continues to face a significant burden of HPV-related diseases, particularly cervical cancer, which remains the second most common cancer among women in the country. According to the Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Information Centre on HPV and Cancer (2023), India reports over 1.23 lakh new cervical cancer cases and more than 77,000 related deaths annually. Apart from this, up to 90% of anal cancers and 63% of penile cancers are associated with HPV. The initiative will continue in cities across the country in the coming months, creating platforms for credible voices in healthcare to educate and empower the public, the organisers said.
Hans India
4 days ago
- Health
- Hans India
Serum Institute of India launches nationwide HPV-cancer public awareness campaign
Bengaluru The 'Conquer HPV & Cancer Conclave 2025' was formally launched in Bengaluru today, marking the beginning of a nationwide public health initiative by the Serum Institute of India (SII). The campaign aims to create widespread awareness about Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and its link to various types of cancers, including cervical cancer, which remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Indian women. India continues to bear a significant burden of HPV-related diseases. According to the ICO/IARC Information Centre on HPV and Cancer (2023), the country records over 1.23 lakh new cervical cancer cases and more than 77,000 related deaths annually. Additionally, around 90% of anal cancers and 63% of penile cancers are also linked to HPV infection. The Bengaluru conclave brought together prominent healthcare experts who discussed the far-reaching implications of HPV and underlined the importance of early vaccination, education, and community engagement. Panelists included Dr. Chidananda N. K., Senior Consultant Pediatrician and Allergist at Chiguru Child Care Centre; Dr. Prashanth M. V., Neonatologist and Pediatric Allergy Specialist; Dr. Shobha K., HOD of Gynecological Oncology at KIDWAI Memorial Institute of Oncology; and Dr. Rajini Uday, HOD of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Sapthagiri Institute of Medical Sciences. The session was moderated by Dr. Bhaskar Shenoy, Head of Pediatrics and Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, who also serves as Chairperson of PIDA 2025. Emphasizing the need for urgent action, Dr. Shenoy said, 'We need to reach both adolescents and their parents with accurate information. Early education and preventive vaccination can save thousands of lives each year. HPV is not just a women's issue—it's a public health issue that affects both genders.' Experts reiterated that HPV is responsible for cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and oropharynx, impacting men and women alike. Since peak HPV infection occurs between the ages of 15 to 25, early intervention through vaccination and awareness campaigns is critical. With the availability of an affordable indigenous HPV vaccine, Cervavac, India now has a powerful tool to reduce the HPV-associated cancer burden. Parag Deshmukh, Executive Director of the Serum Institute of India, stated, 'Through these conclaves held across the country, we aim to increase understanding of HPV and its link to cervical and other cancers. By engaging medical professionals, community workers, and the public, we're promoting early detection and proactive prevention.' The event concluded with a lively open forum discussion, reinforcing the campaign's core mission of empowering individuals and communities with knowledge and access to preventive healthcare. The initiative will continue to be rolled out across multiple Indian cities, building a platform for trusted medical voices to spread awareness and promote life-saving interventions. Serum Institute of India, headquartered in Pune, is the world's largest vaccine manufacturer by volume. Over the past five decades, it has played a pivotal role in developing and delivering affordable, high-quality vaccines. With the launch of Cervavac—India's first indigenously developed gender-neutral quadrivalent HPV vaccine—the institute continues to drive forward its mission of protecting lives globally. *Key HPV & Cervical Cancer Facts (India):* * Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer among Indian women. * Estimated women at risk (aged 15+): 511.4 million. * Annual new cervical cancer cases: 1,23,907. * Annual cervical cancer-related deaths: 77,348. The 'Conquer HPV & Cancer' campaign is a clarion call to prioritize preventive care and end the stigma surrounding HPV-related diseases.
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Parents sent urgent vaccine warning amid cancer red alert
Uptake of a vital vaccine is still well below pre-Covid pandemic levels, experts have warned Young people in one area of the UK are at an 'increased risk' of a certain cancer, as health experts warned parents. According to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), people in parts of the country are more likely to develop cervical cancer. This is due to the fact that coverage of a potentially lifesaving vaccine, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) jab is not the same across the country. Figures from the UKHSA show that there are 'inequalities' in vaccination uptake in different areas and regions across the country. Uptake of the HPV jab is still below what it was prior to the Covid pandemic, the UKHSA warned. It not only protects against cervical cancer, but other forms of the disease such as anal, penile and head and neck cancer. The vaccine is offered to children aged 12 to 13. Research has shown that receiving the HPV vaccine before age 16 provides significantly stronger immune responses and greater protection against HPV-related cancers. Dr Sharif Ismail, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: 'The HPV vaccine, now just a single dose offered in schools, is one of the most powerful tools we have for cancer prevention. Every vaccination represents a young person with better protection against the devastating impact of HPV-related cancers and we must do more to ensure that no teenage girl or boy, young woman or man is denied that protection no matter where they live. 'Although we have seen some increase in the number of young people being vaccinated, uptake is still well below pre-Covid pandemic levels. Over a quarter of young people, many thousands, are missing out on this potentially life-saving vaccine, which protects not only against cervical cancer but all young adults, men and women, against genital warts and some genital cancers, as well as mouth and throat cancers. 'We're calling on all parents to return their children's HPV vaccination consent forms promptly. This simple action could protect your child from developing cancer in the future.' Worst-affected areas The latest HPV vaccine data, which was taken between 2023 to 2024, shows that Lambeth in south London has the lowest uptake of the jab: HPV coverage for female year 10 students by NHS commissioning region was lowest in London (64.9 per cent) and highest in the South East (82.7 per cent) HPV coverage for male year 10 students by NHS commissioning region was lowest in London (58.9 per cent) and highest in the South East (77.3 per cent) HPV coverage for female year 10 students at local authority level ranged from 38.7 per cent (Lambeth) to 97.6 per cent (Northumberland) HPV coverage for male year 10 students at local authority level ranged from 28.2 per cent (Lambeth) to 92.2 per cent (West Berkshire) Data provided by Cancer Research UK on cervical cancer incidence statistics report that rates in England are 65 per cent higher in the most deprived quintile compared with the least. Dr Amanda Doyle, national director for primary care and community services at NHS England, said: 'The NHS HPV vaccination programme has already helped save thousands of lives and we need to go further to boost uptake of HPV vaccines and cervical screening to help eliminate cervical cancer in England by 2040. 'If we can ensure that almost every Year 10 girl in some areas is protected and extremely unlikely to ever develop cervical cancer, we need to match this in every part of the country. It's vital for boys and young men to be vaccinated too. Rates in boys still lag behind girls and HPV causes thousands of cancers in men as well as things like genital warts. 'I would urge all parents to give their consent for their child to be vaccinated and it's important to remember that those that remain unvaccinated and have left school can still get vital protection by contacting their GP practice to catch up before their 25th birthday. With vaccination being just one dose, it is easier than ever to ensure young people get protection.' Getting the HPV vaccine For those who missed their school HPV vaccinations in year 8 and 9, catch-up options remain available and are highly effective. Anyone who missed their HPV vaccination, now just a single jab, can still receive it for free until their 25th birthday through their GP surgery; this also applies to boys born after September 1, 2006. HPV vaccinations are also offered to boys in school in year 8 and 9, and similarly help protect them against HPV infection and its complications, including genital warts, head and neck cancers (which includes mouth and throat) and genital cancers. But boys also have an important role to play in helping eliminate cervical cancer by being vaccinated and not passing on the HPV virus when they become sexually active. For young adults up to age 25, who missed their school vaccinations, please speak to your GP about catch-up options. It's never too late to get protected. And it's important to stress that even if you've had the HPV vaccine, it's vital you still attend your cervical screening appointments when invited. Both vaccination and screening together give you your best chance of protection against cervical cancer. While the HPV vaccine provides excellent protection, attending cervical screening appointments remains crucial, regardless of vaccination status. Screening can detect abnormal cells before they develop into cancer, allowing for early treatment and prevention.
