Pune (Voice news service):- Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital (ABMH) is proud to announce the successful inauguration of its ‘Vaccine for Hope’ initiative, a community-driven campaign aimed at combating cervical cancer through the administration of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines. The event was graced by Hon’ble Minister Aditi Varda Sunil Tatkare, Minister for Women and Child Development, Government of Maharashtra, and Mr. Pamesh Gupta, CEO, Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital. Furthermore, Dr. Nikhil Parwate, Gynaeo Onco Surgeon, Dr. Priya Mankare, Sr Consultant Pediatrician and Dr.Amit Patil, Sr Consultant Obs & Gynaecology IVF Specialist also shared their insights on cervical cancer at the event, underscoring ABMH’s unwavering commitment to preventive healthcare.
The ‘Vaccine for Hope’ drive has been meticulously designed as a six-month initiative to provide free HPV vaccines to young girls aged between 09 to 14, a demographic identified as being at higher risk for HPV infections. This initiative aligns with ABMH’s mission to enhance community health by preventing HPV-related diseases, particularly cervical cancer. The hospital has facilitated the vaccination camp, reinforcing their dedication to safeguarding future generations and striving to bridge the healthcare gap in society.
Cervical cancer remains a significant health concern in India, ranking as the second most frequent cancer among women in the country. Current estimates indicate that annually, approximately 123,900 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and almost 80,000 succumb to the disease. Infections with high-risk HPV strains, notably types 16 and 18, cause most of the cervical cancer. Vaccination against HPV is a highly effective preventive measure, with studies indicating that immunization can substantially reduce the incidence of cervical cancer. However, the uptake still remains low, making initiatives like ‘Vaccine for Hope’ crucial in the fight against this preventable disease.
Mr. Pamesh, CEO of Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “At ABMH, we believe that preventive healthcare is the bedrock of a healthy society. The ‘Vaccine for Hope’ campaign is a testament to our dedication to empowering communities with the tools and knowledge necessary to combat cervical cancer. By providing free HPV vaccinations, we aim to protect our daughters, sisters, and mothers from this devastating yet preventable disease.”
The Chief Guest, Hon’ble Minister Aditi Varda Sunil Tatkare, Minister for Women and Child Development lauded the hospital’s efforts, remarking, “Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital’s visionary approach in launching the ‘Vaccine for Hope’ drive is commendable. Such initiatives are pivotal in raising awareness and providing essential healthcare services to those in need. I am honored to be part of this noble endeavor and I encourage everyone to participate in it.”
In addition to the HPV vaccination drive, ABMH actively engages in several CSR initiatives to enhance community health. These include comprehensive cancer screening programs for breast, cervical, oral, and other cancers, as well as expert-led essential medical procedures such as cataract surgeries, cleft surgeries, and pediatric cardiology surgeries. These programs reflect ABMH’s well-rounded approach to making quality healthcare accessible to those in need.
The ‘Vaccine for Hope’ campaign will not only provide vaccinations but also spread awareness of cervical cancer, its causes, and the importance of regular screenings. ABMH remains committed to its mission of delivering quality healthcare and will continue to lead programs like this in the future that promote the well-being of the community.
