Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action: Join the Fight Against HPV and Save Lives

Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action: Join the Fight Against HPV and Save Lives

November 17, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor Health

Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action – November 17

Introduction

November 17 marks the fourth anniversary of the global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer. This day emphasizes the importance of frontline health workers in cervical cancer prevention, treatment, and care.

Current Statistics

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the WHO South-East Asia Region. In 2022, about 200,000 new cases were reported, with an estimated 120,000 deaths. The region holds roughly one-third of the global burden of cervical cancer.

WHO Targets

WHO aims to eliminate cervical cancer by achieving these targets by 2030:

  • Vaccinate 90% of girls with the HPV vaccine by age 15.
  • Screen 70% of women using a high-performance test by ages 35 and 45.
  • Treat 90% of women with pre-cancer and invasive cancer.

Regional Strategies

Countries in the region have made progress. Examples include:

  • Bhutan’s health project targeting interim goals.
  • Indonesia’s national cervical cancer plan and high HPV vaccination rates.
  • Thailand’s Cancer Anywhere program, which offers free care.

Challenges

Obstacles remain. Vaccine supply shortages and high costs limit vaccination efforts. Access to radiation therapy and palliative care services is insufficient.

Recommendations for Improvement

  1. HPV Vaccination: Countries should implement nationwide HPV vaccination programs. Increasing coverage to over 90% among girls up to age 15 is essential. Single-dose regimens can improve coverage and affordability.

  2. Cervical Cancer Screening: Expand screening programs by integrating them into routine health care. Focus on high-performance HPV DNA testing and replace visual inspections with acetic acid.

  3. Capacity Strengthening: Improve resources for cancer diagnosis and treatment. This includes:

    • Implementing management guidelines.
    • Enhancing pathology and surgical services.
    • Increasing access to radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
  4. Comprehensive Care: Include cervical cancer services in universal health coverage. Palliative care, psychosocial support, and survivorship care should be standard.

Conclusion

The fight against cervical cancer is a collective effort. Policymakers, health workers, civil society, and communities must work together to achieve cervical cancer elimination goals by 2030. On this Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action, we reaffirm our commitment to providing every girl and woman access to life-saving interventions.