Mongolia officially launched a nationwide vaccination campaign against human papillomavirus (HPV) on Thursday, targeting the prevention of cervical cancer, the National Center for Communicable Diseases (NCCD) announced.

Hospitals across the country will provide free HPV vaccinations to 11-year-old boys and girls, with parental or guardian consent. The initiative follows the government’s decision in December 2023 to include the HPV vaccine in the National Immunization Schedule for all 11-year-olds.

The vaccination campaign is a key component of Mongolia’s broader strategy to combat HPV-related cancers, particularly cervical cancer, which poses a significant health threat in the country.

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in Mongolia and ranks as the fourth most prevalent cancer overall, according to the NCCD.

In 2023, Mongolia recorded 425 new cases of cervical cancer and 165 related deaths in its population of 3.5 million. Additionally, approximately 4,700 women are currently undergoing treatment for the disease.

The introduction of the HPV vaccine marks a significant step in Mongolia’s efforts to improve public health outcomes. By targeting preteens for vaccination, the government aims to protect future generations from HPV-related cancers and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

This proactive approach reflects Mongolia’s commitment to tackling preventable diseases and underscores the importance of early intervention in combating life-threatening conditions. (ILKHA)