Institute of Cytology & Preventive Oncology (ICPO) which was initially established as Cytology Research Centre by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in 1979, came into the existence in 1989 when CRC was elevated to the level of Institute.

ICPO was instituted with the main aim of promoting research in the field of cancers that are most prevalent in India with an emphasis on their early detection and prevention.

Multidisciplinary studies involving epidemiological, behavioral, clinical, cytomorphological, cytogenetic, biochemical, virological, immunological and molecular biological aspects are being undertaken in order to understand the natural history, biological behaviour and mechanisms of carcinogenesis.

ICPO has since made significant contributions in the field of cervical cancer research. The concept of clinical downstaging, visual inspection of cervix with selective cytology screening and development of novel diagnostic approaches for screening HPV and other cancer causing and cancer suppressor genes have been introduced for early detection of cervical cancer.

The institute has evolved as a national reference centre for HPV and cervical cancer and provides specialized diagnostic referral services.

ICPO was accepted as a full UICC member in 1986.