Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Jul 28: Indian-American radiation oncologist Dattatreyudu Nori has said the widespread use of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine could help India eliminate cervical cancer in the coming years by significantly strengthening prevention efforts.

In an interview, Nori described cervical cancer as a disease that is preventable, detectable and curable, and said continued fatalities remain a matter of concern.

"Now, with the HPV vaccination, we have an upper hand, and in few years, we'll be able to eliminate cancer of the cervix from India," he said.

Nori said nearly 200 women die of cervical cancer every day in India and welcomed the introduction of free HPV vaccination for girls, calling it a major step towards reducing the disease burden.

He also praised the progress made in India's healthcare sector over the past 12 years, particularly in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

According to Nori, the establishment of the National Cancer Institute, expansion of cancer treatment facilities, financial support for patients and lower prices for imported chemotherapy medicines have significantly improved cancer care.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Nori commended the government's initiatives in strengthening oncology services and said he remained optimistic about India's future in cancer detection, prevention, screening and treatment.

Speaking about his career, Nori said he moved to the United States nearly five decades ago and rose through the ranks to head a department at an Ivy League medical school.

Nori was conferred the Padma Bhushan in 2026 for his contributions to medicine. The Padma Bhushan is India's third-highest civilian award.