Human Papillomavirus: A Threat That’s Hard to Ignore

Abstract

Human papillomavirus remains one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, with types 16 and 18 being responsible for the global burden of cervical cancer and contributing to the majority of anogenital and oropharyngeal malignancies. South Asian data reveal the highest positivity in women aged over 55 years, reflecting gaps in prevention throughout the life course. Since the emergence of the first HPV vaccine in 2006, national programmes across the region have progressed unevenly, although Bhutan, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka have achieved relatively stronger coverage. With countries such as India, Bangladesh, and Nepal scaling up vaccination efforts, leveraging effective COVID-19 rollout strategies presents an important window for strengthening regional control of HPV.