The icddr,b's breakthrough research has been instrumental in the World Health Organization's (WHO) approval of Cecolin, the fourth HPV vaccine.
This significant milestone strengthens global efforts to combat cervical cancer, which claims a woman's life every two minutes, with 90 per cent of the deaths occurring in the low- and middle-income countries. With over 660,000 cases of cervical cancer occurring globally each year, over 95 per cent are caused by HPV.
The CVIA 087 (CHOISES) trial, conducted in collaboration with PATH, icddr,b, and partners in Ghana in 2021-23, has generated critical data on Cecolin, a bivalent HPV vaccine produced by Innovax in China.
The WHO's recent announcement follows their thorough review of this data, adding Cecolin as a recommended single-dose public vaccine.
Dr K Zaman, senior scientist at icddr,b and lead investigator of the trial, said, "Our research has proved the safety and efficacy of Cecolin as a single-dose vaccine, providing a viable option for the countries struggling with vaccine supply shortage."
"Bangladesh's involvement in this global breakthrough is a proud moment, and we hope it increases confidence in the HPV vaccination programme."
In marking this important milestone, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated, "Unlike most other cancers, we have the ability to eliminate cervical cancer, along with its painful inequities. By adding another option for a one-dose HPV vaccination schedule, we have taken a step closer to consigning cervical cancer to history."
Dr Tahmeed Ahmed, Executive Director of icddr,b, emphasised the importance of vaccination, especially as the Bangladesh government is offering free HPV vaccines to the girls aged 10-14 years or those studying in grades 5-9.
"This is a critical opportunity to protect our daughters from cervical cancer. Vaccination is our strongest defence, and I encourage all parents and guardians to ensure their girls receive this life-saving vaccine. It's a priority not only for those eligible for the free programme, but for all who are at risk," he added.
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