MDU Rohtak study links HPV‑16 and HPV‑18 with most cervical cancers in cohort; screening urged
A research study by the Department of Genetics, Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU), Rohtak, has reported that high‑risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types 16 and 18 were present in a majority of the cervical cancer patients included in the study, underlining the need for intensified screening, vaccination and community awareness in the region.
The work was carried out by research scholar Shalu under the supervision of Prof Ritu Yadav of the Department of Genetics, with Prof Meenakshi Chauhan of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at PGIMS, Rohtak, as co‑supervisor, the university's public relations office said.
According to Pankaj Nain, Public Relations Officer, MDU, the study also examined molecular alterations in long non‑coding RNAs and identified certain genetic and epigenetic changes that the researchers say could have potential as biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis. The findings, the PRO added, may help in developing personalised treatment approaches and newer therapeutic strategies.
"Prof Ritu Yadav has been actively promoting awareness about cervical cancer across North India. Through awareness programmes, more than 2,000 women from rural and urban areas have so far been sensitised to the symptoms, risk factors, prevention and importance of timely screening," the PRO said.
Implications for public health in Rohtak and surrounding districts
The study highlights established links between persistent infection by high‑risk HPV types and cervical cancer. By reporting a predominance of HPV‑16 and HPV‑18 in their patient cohort, the MDU team reinforces global evidence that vaccination against these types and regular screening can substantially reduce incidence and mortality from cervical cancer.
- Screening: Early and regular screening programmes can detect precancerous changes when they are most treatable.
- Vaccination: Prophylactic HPV vaccination protects against high‑risk types including HPV‑16 and HPV‑18 and is central to primary prevention strategies.
- Awareness: Community outreach, especially in rural areas, increases uptake of screening and vaccination and helps address misconceptions and barriers to care.
The research also assessed reproductive and lifestyle factors associated with cervical cancer in the study population, with the PRO noting associations with age at first childbirth, parity (number of births) and history of miscarriages, although the report did not provide numeric effect sizes in the summary released by the university.
Research elements and next steps
MDU's report states that the study explored molecular changes in long non‑coding RNAs — a class of RNA molecules that do not code for proteins but can regulate gene expression — and detected specific genetic and epigenetic alterations. The university characterised these as potential biomarkers for early detection and prognosis, which could inform personalised care if validated in larger cohorts.
The PRO indicated that the study team plans continued engagement with communities to promote preventive measures. The university's ongoing awareness initiatives, led by Prof Ritu Yadav, have reached over 2,000 women in both urban and rural settings across North India, the statement said.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Lead research | Research scholar Shalu; supervisor Prof Ritu Yadav; co‑supervisor Prof Meenakshi Chauhan |
| Key finding | High‑risk HPV types 16 and 18 found in majority of patients studied |
| Outreach | Over 2,000 women sensitised through awareness programmes |
Medical experts and public health authorities typically recommend HPV vaccination for eligible age groups and regular cervical screening for women as primary and secondary prevention measures. The MDU study's local data may provide additional impetus for targeted screening drives and vaccination campaigns in Rohtak and neighbouring districts.
Readers with health concerns are advised to consult qualified medical professionals for personalised advice; the report from MDU outlines potential biomarkers that require further validation before being adopted in routine clinical practice.
