India pledges $7.5mn to combat cervical cancer
- PM Narendra Modi said the initiative would go a long way in providing affordable, accessible and quality health care to people in Indo-Pacific countries.
Highlights:
- India has pledged $7.5 million towards the fight against cervical cancer in the Indo-Pacific region.
- This announcement was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Cancer Moonshot event hosted by the U.S. President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the Quad Summit.
- India’s contribution is aimed at enhancing testing, screening, and diagnosis of cervical cancer in the region.
- With the Quad focusing on combating the disease, India’s initiative will play a crucial role in providing affordable and accessible healthcare across Indo-Pacific nations.
Key Components of India’s Efforts:
HPV Vaccine Production:
- India has developed its own vaccine against Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a significant cause of cervical cancer.
- In partnership with Serum Institute of India and Gavi, India will help procure up to 40 million doses of the vaccine for distribution in the Indo-Pacific region.
Technical Support:
- India will provide expertise in cancer care through its National Non-Communicable Disease Portal, which tracks long-term data on cancer screening and treatment.
Global Health Leadership:
- This initiative underscores India’s leadership in providing global health solutions and strengthening the Quad's health initiatives.
- By focusing on eradicating cervical cancer, the Quad alliance is addressing a critical public health issue while advancing cooperation in healthcare across the region.
Prelims Takeaways:
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)