Pakistan’s First HPV Vaccination Campaign Protects Millions of Girls

Against significant odds, Pakistan has achieved a milestone in women’s health by launching its first-ever human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign in 2025. The initiative, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), trained more than 49,000 health workers to deliver vaccines across the country.

The campaign targeted girls aged 9–14, a critical age group for preventing cervical cancer. By the end of the drive, over 9.6 million girls had been vaccinated, marking a historic achievement in Pakistan’s fight against one of the most common cancers among women.

Health workers such as Riffat, Saira, Shaheen, and Naheed became frontline heroes, traveling across provinces to ensure vaccines reached schools, communities, and remote areas. Their dedication highlighted the resilience of Pakistan’s healthcare system, even in the face of logistical challenges and limited resources.

Cervical cancer remains the third most frequent cancer among women in Pakistan. The HPV vaccine is globally recognized as a powerful tool to prevent the disease, and Pakistan’s campaign aligns with the World Health Assembly’s global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer.

Officials emphasized that this effort was not only about vaccination but also about raising awareness. Families, teachers, and community leaders were engaged to build trust and encourage participation. The campaign demonstrated how collaboration between government, international partners, and local health workers can drive transformative change.

By protecting millions of girls, Pakistan has taken a bold step toward reducing future cancer cases and empowering women with better health prospects. The success of this campaign sets the stage for continued progress in public health and reinforces Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding its next generation.