The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 9th July 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

1. Definition and Types:

   • HPV is a collection of more than 200 related viruses.
   • Among these, over 40 types are transmitted through direct sexual contact.
   • Two specific types of HPV are known to cause genital warts.
   • Around a dozen types of HPV can lead to various cancers, including cervical cancer.

2. Cervical Cancer:

   • HPV is responsible for more than 95% of cervical cancer cases globally. This significant correlation underscores the importance of understanding and preventing HPV infections to reduce cervical cancer incidence.

3. Transmission:

   • HPV is the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide, highlighting its widespread nature.
   • It also spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, which means sexual intercourse is not the only mode of transmission.
   • A significant challenge in controlling HPV spread is that most infected individuals do not develop noticeable symptoms. As a result, many people remain unaware that they are carriers of the virus, inadvertently contributing to its transmission.

4. Body's Response:

   • In many cases, the body's immune system can identify and eliminate HPV without causing any long-term health issues.
   • However, if the virus persists in the body over a long period, it can cause cell changes that may eventually lead to cancer. This highlights the importance of regular health check-ups and screenings for early detection and intervention.

5. HPV Vaccination:

   • The HPV vaccine is a preventive measure that involves a series of shots designed to protect against the virus.
   • Vaccination is crucial as it helps prevent HPV infections that could progress to cancer or cause genital warts.
   • The vaccine is most effective when administered to individuals between the ages of 9 and 26. This age range is optimal because the vaccine is more likely to produce a strong immune response before individuals are exposed to the virus.
   • If a person already has an HPV infection, the vaccine's effectiveness in preventing related cancers or warts is reduced.
   • The HPV vaccine is not recommended for pregnant women, ensuring the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus.

Importance of HPV Vaccination:

• Cancer Prevention: The primary goal of the HPV vaccine is to prevent cancers caused by the virus, such as cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.
• Genital Warts Prevention: The vaccine also protects against the types of HPV that cause genital warts, improving overall genital health.
• Public Health Impact: Widespread vaccination can significantly reduce the prevalence of HPV-related diseases in the population, leading to lower healthcare costs and improved public health outcomes.

Summary

HPV is a common and often asymptomatic virus that can lead to serious health issues, including various cancers. Vaccination is a highly effective preventive measure, especially when administered before exposure to the virus. Public awareness and vaccination programs are key to reducing the burden of HPV-related diseases.

A Brewing Duel Amid Manila’s Dual Engagement

India’s Stance on Philippines’ Sovereignty

1. Declaration of Support:

   • Date and Event: In March 2024, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, during a diplomatic visit to Manila, reaffirmed India’s unwavering support for the Philippines in safeguarding its national sovereignty.
   • Context: This declaration came at a time of escalated tensions between Manila and Beijing over territorial claims in the South China Sea in 2023.

2. South China Sea Dispute:

   • Background: The South China Sea has been a long-standing area of dispute, with multiple countries, including the Philippines and China, laying claim to various parts of it.
   • Escalated Tensions: The conflict intensified in 2023, making India’s support for the Philippines particularly significant.

Shift in India’s Policy on the South China Sea Issue

1. Departure from Neutrality:

   • Previous Stance: Historically, India maintained a stance of cautious neutrality concerning the South China Sea disputes.
   • New Approach: India’s explicit support for the Philippines marks a clear departure from this neutral position.

2. Policy Evolution:

   • Look East Policy: Initially, India’s engagement with Southeast Asia focused on economic integration and energy security under the Look East Policy.
   • Act East Policy: This has now evolved into the Act East Policy under the current regime, reflecting a more strategic and proactive approach in the Indo-Pacific region.

3. Energy Exploration Projects:

   • Vietnam’s EEZ: India’s involvement in oil and gas exploration within Vietnam’s exclusive economic zones signifies its commitment to maintaining the freedom of exploration as per international law.
   • International Law: This participation underscores India's adherence to the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Conclusion

• Nuanced Approach: India’s stance in the South China Sea illustrates its commitment to safeguarding its national interests while contributing to regional stability.
• Advocacy for UNCLOS: By advocating for UNCLOS and adherence to international law, India indirectly challenges China’s expansive territorial claims in the South China Sea.
• Regional Stability: India’s actions and policies reflect a balance between supporting regional allies like the Philippines and maintaining its strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific.

Prelims PYQ (2022):

With reference to the United National Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements:

1. A coastal state has the right to establish the breadth of its territorial sea up to a limit not exceeding 12 nautical miles, measured from baseline determined in accordance with the convention. 

2. Ships of all states, whether coastal or land-locked, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea.

3. The Exclusive Economic Zone shall not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured. 

Which of the statements given above are correct? 

(a) 1 and 2 only 

(b) 2 and 3 only 

(c) 1 and 3 only 

(d) 1, 2 and 3 

Ans: (d)