In a groundbreaking initiative, Government of Bangladesh (GoB) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, UNHCR, and other health partners, launched a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign in the Rohingya camps. This campaign aims to provide free vaccines to female students from Grade 5 to Grade 9, and out-of-school female adolescents aged 10 to 14 years, marking a significant step toward preventing cervical cancer within the camps.

This campaign is part of a broader nationwide effort across seven Divisions in Bangladesh from October 24 to November 28, 2024. HPV vaccination is a critical component of the WHO Global Strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem. Globally, implementing this strategy could prevent 74 million cases of cervical cancer and save the lives of over 60 million girls and women in the next century[1].

Members at the dais during the HPV vaccine inauguration in Rohingya camps, marking a significant step towards protecting the community.
Photo Credit: WHO/Terence Ngwabe Che

“I am pleased to launch this campaign for Rohingya adolescent girls. I encourage everyone involved to address any queries or concerns from vaccine recipients, counter misinformation, and handle any cases with adverse reactions with care and empathy. Please engage more with religious leaders to raise awareness within the community.”
– Dr S. M. Abdullah Al Murad, Line Director MNCAH

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide, with approximately 660,000 new cases and 350,000 deaths in 2022, 90% of which occur in low- and middle-income countries[2]. In Bangladesh, it is the second most common cancer among women. HPV vaccines are essential for preventing cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases, particularly in settings like the Rohingya camps, where access to regular healthcare, including cervical cancer screening and treatment, is limited. Vaccination in such settings not only lowers individual risks but also reduces the long-term healthcare burden, supporting global efforts to eliminate health disparities.