Serum Institute of India Launches Nationwide HPV-Cancer Awareness Campaign in Chennai
The Serum Institute of India (SII) kickstarted its nationwide “Conquer HPV & Cancer Conclave 2025” in Chennai, aiming to raise awareness about HPV-related cancers. India faces over 1.23 lakh new cervical cancer cases and more than 77,000 deaths annually, with HPV also linked to anal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers.
A distinguished panel of medical experts, including Dr. Vijaya (ESIC Medical College), Dr. Somu Sivabalan (Rainbow Children`s Hospital), Dr. Kavitha Sukumar (MMC & Kauvery Hospital), and Dr. B. Sarath Balaji (ICH MMC), participated in the discussion. The session was moderated by Dr. Jayashree N. (Cancer Institute, Adyar).
Speakers stressed the urgency of awareness among youth and parents, the broad impact of HPV across genders, and the role of timely vaccination. With the affordable Cervavac vaccine now available—India`s first indigenously developed gender-neutral HPV vaccine—prevention is within reach.
Parag Deshmukh, Executive Director of SII, emphasized the conclave’s goal to educate communities, promote early detection, and reduce preventable cancer cases.
The campaign will extend to other cities nationwide, reinforcing the Serum Institute’s commitment to public health and cancer prevention.
Key Stats:
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Cervical cancer is the 2nd most common cancer among Indian women
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1.23 lakh new cervical cancer cases and 77,348 deaths annually
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511 million Indian women (aged ≥15) are at risk
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Source: ICO/IARC Information Centre on HPV and Cancer, 2023
