New Delhi, April 24 -- April 24:Indigenously developed HPV test kits are set to become a game-changer in India's efforts to tackle cervical cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women, renowned gynaecologic oncologist, Dr Neerja Bhatla, said on Wednesday.

Speaking to IANS on the sidelines of a scientific review event in the national capital, Dr Bhatla, a Padma Shri recipient, emphasised that these cost-effective kits will help strengthen early screening efforts, especially in rural and underserved areas.

"Vaccination should ideally be done before the age of 15, and screening should start after 30," she told IANS, highlighting the importance of both vaccination and screening in preventing cervical cancer. She a...