HER2 and CD24 Emerge as Promising Radiotheranostic Targets in Endometrial Cancer

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  HER2 and CD24 Emerge as Promising Radiotheranostic Targets in Endometrial Cancer Introduction Endometrial cancer, the most common gynecological cancer in developed countries, has been steadily rising in incidence worldwide. While early-stage disease often responds well to surgery and conventional therapies, advanced and recurrent cases remain challenging to treat. Over the last decade, researchers have been exploring precision oncology strategies—approaches that target specific molecular markers in cancer cells to improve outcomes. Among these emerging strategies is radiotheranostics , a cutting-edge field that combines diagnostic imaging and targeted radionuclide therapy. The idea is simple yet powerful: use the same molecule to both detect and destroy cancer cells. Recent studies highlight two promising molecular candidates for radiotheranostic development in endometrial cancer— HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) and CD24 , a cell surface glycoprotein. In t...
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HPV Vaccination Drive Starts Sept 15: A Major Step Toward Preventing Cervical Cancer



Introduction

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common viral infections in the world and a major cause of cervical cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 95% of cervical cancer cases are linked to HPV infection. In response to this growing concern, health authorities are set to launch a nationwide HPV vaccination drive starting on September 15.

This vaccination campaign aims to protect millions of girls and young women from HPV-related diseases, reduce the burden of cervical cancer, and spread awareness about preventive healthcare. The program will also highlight the importance of early protection, safe practices, and regular screenings.

In this article, we will explore the details of the upcoming HPV vaccination drive, its significance, how the vaccine works, who should get vaccinated, and how this initiative will impact public health in the years to come.

Why HPV Vaccination is Important

HPV is a highly contagious virus that spreads through intimate skin-to-skin contact. While most HPV infections clear up naturally, some strains can persist and cause serious health problems, including:

  • Cervical cancer

  • Vaginal and vulvar cancers

  • Anal and oropharyngeal cancers

  • Genital warts

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women globally. Every year, hundreds of thousands of women lose their lives to this preventable disease. The HPV vaccine is a proven and safe way to protect against the virus strains most commonly associated with cancer.

By starting this vaccination drive on September 15, health departments aim to create widespread protection, reduce future cases, and save thousands of lives annually.

Details of the Vaccination Drive

Launch Date

The official launch date for the HPV vaccination drive is September 15. From this day forward, the program will roll out in different phases to cover schools, healthcare centers, and vaccination camps across the country.

Target Group

The vaccination will primarily focus on:

  • Girls aged 9 to 14 years, as this is the most effective age group for HPV vaccination.

  • In some regions, boys in the same age group may also be included, since HPV affects both genders.

  • Catch-up doses may be offered to young women up to the age of 26, depending on availability.

Free or Subsidized Access

In most public sector campaigns, the HPV vaccine will be provided free of cost to eligible girls. For those outside the age group, private healthcare facilities may offer the vaccine at subsidized rates.

Implementation

  • School-based vaccination: Teams will visit schools to ensure high coverage.

  • Community health centers: Clinics will remain open for those who cannot access school programs.

  • Awareness campaigns: Health officials will use media, community programs, and social workers to spread knowledge about HPV prevention.

How the HPV Vaccine Works

The HPV vaccine works by stimulating the body’s immune system to produce antibodies against certain high-risk HPV types. Once vaccinated, the body can fight off the virus before it causes infection.

Types of HPV Vaccines

  1. Bivalent vaccine – Protects against HPV types 16 and 18 (responsible for most cervical cancers).

  2. Quadrivalent vaccine – Protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18.

  3. Nonavalent vaccine – Provides broader protection against nine different HPV types.

Most vaccination drives use the quadrivalent or nonavalent vaccines, as they offer maximum coverage.

Doses

  • Girls aged 9 to 14 usually need two doses spaced several months apart.

  • Older individuals may require three doses for full protection.

Addressing Myths and Misconceptions

Despite proven safety, HPV vaccination sometimes faces resistance due to myths and misinformation. Let’s address some of the most common misconceptions:

  • Myth 1: HPV vaccination encourages early sexual activity
    Reality: Studies have shown that vaccination does not influence sexual behavior. It only protects against future risks.

  • Myth 2: HPV vaccine is unsafe
    Reality: The HPV vaccine has been thoroughly tested in millions of individuals worldwide. Side effects are usually mild, such as pain at the injection site or mild fever.

  • Myth 3: Only women need the vaccine
    Reality: While cervical cancer affects women, men can also get HPV-related cancers. In some countries, boys are included in the vaccination drive to reduce transmission.

By addressing these myths, the September 15 vaccination drive will focus on increasing public trust and ensuring maximum participation.

Global Experience with HPV Vaccination

Countries that introduced HPV vaccination earlier have already seen promising results:

  • Australia: One of the first countries to launch mass vaccination, Australia has significantly reduced cervical cancer rates and is on track to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem by 2035.

  • United Kingdom: HPV vaccination reduced HPV infections and precancerous lesions among young women by over 80%.

  • United States: Studies show a sharp decline in HPV infections and related diseases among vaccinated groups.

These success stories highlight the importance of implementing the drive effectively and ensuring maximum coverage in every community.

The Role of Parents and Schools

Parents play a crucial role in the success of this campaign. Since most recipients will be young girls, parental consent and awareness are essential. Schools will also be central to the program, offering a safe and structured environment for vaccination.

How Parents Can Help

  • Get informed: Understand how the vaccine protects your child.

  • Provide consent: Sign consent forms when the vaccination teams visit schools.

  • Spread awareness: Encourage other parents in the community to support the initiative.

Role of Schools

  • Facilitating vaccination days.

  • Educating students about preventive healthcare.

  • Assisting healthcare workers in reaching all eligible children.

Long-Term Benefits of the Vaccination Drive

The HPV vaccination drive starting September 15 is more than just a short-term campaign. It will bring long-lasting benefits, such as:

  • Reduced cervical cancer cases: With high coverage, cases could drop significantly within 10–15 years.

  • Economic savings: Preventing cancer reduces the burden on healthcare systems and families.

  • Healthier generations: Early prevention ensures young girls grow up without the fear of HPV-related illnesses.

  • Progress toward global goals: WHO has set a target to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem, and this campaign contributes directly to that mission.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

While the campaign is promising, several challenges may arise:

  1. Lack of awareness – Many families may not know about HPV or its link to cancer.

    • Solution: Launch aggressive awareness campaigns through TV, radio, and social media.

  2. Vaccine hesitancy – Misinformation may discourage some parents.

    • Solution: Provide clear, evidence-based information from trusted health professionals.

  3. Accessibility issues – Remote and rural areas may face challenges.

    • Solution: Deploy mobile vaccination units and collaborate with local community leaders.

By addressing these barriers, the vaccination drive can achieve maximum success.

What to Expect on Vaccination Day

Parents and children may wonder what happens during vaccination. Here’s a quick overview:

  1. Registration – Eligible girls will be registered at the school or health center.

  2. Health check – Nurses may ask basic health questions to ensure the child is fit for vaccination.

  3. Injection – The vaccine is given as a small injection in the upper arm.

  4. Observation – Children are observed for 15–30 minutes for any immediate reactions (rare).

  5. Aftercare – Normal activities can resume, with only mild side effects expected in some cases.

Conclusion

The upcoming HPV vaccination drive starting September 15 marks a historic step toward preventing cervical cancer and protecting future generations. With widespread coverage, this initiative has the power to save countless lives, reduce the healthcare burden, and bring the country closer to eliminating cervical cancer as a public health threat.

Parents, schools, healthcare workers, and communities must work together to ensure the campaign’s success. The HPV vaccine is safe, effective, and life-saving. By supporting this drive, we can build a healthier, cancer-free future for our children.

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