A global strategy launched by 194 countries in 2020 seeks to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030. The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies cervical cancer as both preventable and curable, yet it remains a significant health challenge, with an estimated 660,000 women diagnosed and 350,000 deaths worldwide in 2022. The strategy focuses on widespread vaccination, screening, and treatment to achieve its ambitious targets.
Understanding Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a form of reproductive cancer that originates in the cervix. If not detected and treated early, the disease can spread to other parts of the body. According to UNICEF, a woman dies from cervical cancer every two minutes, and global data from 2022 indicates it is the fourth most common cancer among women globally.
Almost all cases of cervical cancer are linked to persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomaviruses (HPV). HPV is a common virus transmitted through sexual contact, and while most sexually active individuals contract it at some point, the immune system typically clears the virus naturally. However, persistent infection with specific high-risk HPV types can lead to abnormal cell growth that may progress to cancer.
Prevention and Treatment Strategies
Cervical cancer is preventable through vaccination and screening, and it is considered one of the most treatable forms of cancer when detected early and managed effectively. The WHO recommends several key prevention and treatment strategies:
- HPV Vaccination: All girls aged 9-14 should receive the HPV vaccine prior to the onset of sexual activity.
- Cervical Screening: Screening is advised from age 30, or from age 25 for women living with HIV.
Despite the availability of effective prevention and treatment methods, disparities in access persist globally. These disparities contribute to higher incidence and mortality rates in regions such as sub-Saharan Africa, Central America, and Southeast Asia.
Global Elimination Strategy
In 2020, 194 countries initiated a global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer. November 17, the day of the strategy's launch, is now observed as World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day. The strategy outlines three key targets for achievement by 2030:
- Vaccination: 90% of girls to be fully vaccinated against HPV by age 15.
- Screening: 70% of women to be screened with a high-performance test by age 35 and again at age 45.
- Treatment: 90% of women diagnosed with cervical cancer to receive treatment.
Projections from this strategy suggest that successful elimination of cervical cancer could prevent an estimated 74 million new cases and avert 62 million deaths by the year 2120. These global efforts are often highlighted during Cancer Awareness Month each January.