Let’s start simple: HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus. It’s one of the most common viruses in the world, and while most infections clear on their own, certain types of HPV can silently lead to cervical cancer in women. That’s the scary part — you often don’t see symptoms early on. By the time problems like abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain show up, the disease may already be serious.
Now here’s the hopeful part: cervical cancer is one of the few cancers we can actually prevent. The tool we have is the HPV vaccine – a safe injection recommended for girls aged 9 to 14, before they’re exposed to the virus. This one dose builds long-lasting protection against cervical cancer, and studies worldwide have proven how effective it is. In fact, Muslim countries like Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and the UAE already include the HPV vaccine in their national schedules. And yes, it’s halal, safe, and it does not affect fertility or future marriage.
So why is Pakistan talking about this now? Because cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women globally, and in Pakistan, it’s the third most common cancer among women overall, and second most common among women between 15 and 44 years old. Thousands of lives are lost every year to a disease we could prevent with just one injection. That’s why the Government of Pakistan is officially launching the HPV vaccine on September 15, 2025, starting with girls aged 9–14 free of charge.
Where AMAN Comes In
This is where the Association for Mothers and Newborns (AMAN) steps up. Established in 2007, AMAN is a non-profit group made up of doctors, midwives, lawyers, media professionals, and social scientists – all working together to improve maternal and newborn health in Pakistan. Their vision is simple yet powerful: a world where every pregnancy is planned, every birth is safe, and every mother and newborn thrive.
AMAN is accredited by the Pakistan Centre for Philanthropy (PCP), which allows it to benefit from tax exemptions and strengthens both local and international fundraising. Over the next five years, AMAN’s strategy is closely aligned with Pakistan’s FP2030 commitments, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Council of Common Interest’s recommendations, and the National Health Framework (2018).
Over the years, AMAN has become a trusted voice in women’s health. They’ve trained healthcare providers, supported communities, launched telemedicine services during COVID-19, and even built an online reproductive health platform, Bakhabar Noujawan, which now includes a module on cervical cancer. They’re accredited locally and connected internationally, which allows them to bring global best practices to Pakistan while tailoring solutions for our communities.
And right now, AMAN is reaffirming its commitment to eliminating cervical cancer. With a GAVI-funded advocacy project in Sindh (2025-26), they’re working to counter myths, reduce vaccine hesitancy, and mobilize parents, teachers, health workers, and even influencers to spread awareness. Their goal is ambitious but necessary: reach over 400,000 adolescent girls, parents, and teachers with accurate information and real access to the HPV vaccine.
How They’re Doing It
The strategy is twofold – engaging people directly in their communities while also reaching them online. On the ground, AMAN is holding workshops in schools, madrassahs, and community centers where parents and caregivers can openly ask questions and hear from trusted health professionals. Local health workers and community leaders are also being trained to act as champions of the cause, creating a grassroots network of voices people already know and trust. At the same time, the organization is investing heavily in digital outreach. Through influencer-driven campaigns on social media platforms in English, Urdu, and Sindhi, AMAN is putting out videos, infographics, and real stories that explain why the HPV vaccine matters.
The idea is straightforward: fight misinformation with facts, in the language and platforms people already use.
Answering the Questions Everyone Has
Parents naturally have many concerns about the HPV vaccine, and AMAN addresses them openly. One common question is why the vaccine is only offered to girls aged 9 to 14. The reason is that it works best when given before any exposure to the virus, ideally before marriage. While older women can still benefit, the immediate priority is to protect the group with the highest preventive value.
Another concern is why boys are not included; for now, Pakistan is focusing on girls since they face the greatest risk of cervical cancer, though the program may expand in the future. Families also ask whether the vaccine is safe and permissible in Islam. The answer is yes, it has been used safely in 144 countries, is halal according to scholars, and is already part of vaccination schedules in several Muslim-majority nations. Importantly, it has no effect on fertility, pregnancy, or future marriage prospects, despite common myths. The HPV vaccine is highly effective against cancer causing strains of HPV. However, even after vaccination the vaccinated girl needs to be screened for cervical cancer by performing regular Pap smears later in life.
There is 95% protection for a woman regardless of her husband.
Dr. Sadia Pal Gynecologist, Concept Fertility Center, Karachi, on efficacy of the HPV Vaccine
Logistics are another area parents want clarity on. Under Pakistan’s updated guidelines, only a single dose of the HPV vaccine is required. The first campaign runs from September 15 – 27, 2025, with vaccinators available in schools, madrassas, community vaccination sites, and government health facilities. After the campaign, it will remain available for 9-year-old girls at Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) centers, completely free of charge. Vaccinations are administered by trained professionals such as Lady Health Visitors, EPI vaccinators, and nurses. Girls can safely receive the vaccine even during their periods or with a mild fever; only serious illness requires waiting. For families who miss the campaign dates, EPI centers will continue offering the vaccine, ensuring no eligible girl is left unprotected.
Why This Matters
Pakistan’s struggles with polio have shown us how dangerous misinformation and mistrust can be. The same challenges – myths, cultural hesitations, lack of awareness – could hold back HPV vaccine acceptance if not addressed carefully. But the difference here is that we have a strong partnership of government, communities, and organizations like AMAN working hand in hand to make sure girls are protected.
Cervical cancer is preventable, but prevention requires action now. Every girl vaccinated is one step closer to a future where fewer families face the heartbreak and financial burden of cancer. As AMAN puts it: a healthy daughter means a healthy family, and a healthier Pakistan.
The information in this article has been sourced by Dr Azra Ahsan
MBBS, MRCOG, FRCOG
- Consultant OBGYN New Beginnings Healthcare & Medicell
- President of Association for Mothers and Newborns (AMAN)
- Technical Consultant and Vice President of (NCMNH)
- Vice Chair, FIGO Committee on Contraception
- Life Member, Society of Obstetricians & Gynecologists of Pakistan (SOGP)
- Honorary Member, Midwifery Association of Pakistan (MAP)
- Member of many steering committees and technical advisory groups
- Has many publications to her credit
Dr. Azra Ahsan has played a pivotal role in initiating and advancing HPV vaccination advocacy efforts, particularly in Sindh province. As a committed public health leader and member of several national technical working groups, she has been instrumental in steering policy dialogues, engaging key stakeholders, and championing the introduction of the HPV vaccine for girls 9–14 years as a critical step in preventing cervical cancer.
Thank you FUCHSIA Magazine for shining a spotlight on this important cause. Raising awareness about the HPV vaccine is critical to protecting our daughters from cervical cancer — a disease that is preventable with just one safe dose.
Your platform is helping spread the right information, fight myths, and inspire families to take action. Together, we can protect futures and build a healthier Pakistan.
Thank you for bringing up such an important 🔝 c for public discourse.