What is the Global Strategy?
The global strategy to accelerate the elimination of
cervical cancer is an initiative launched by the World Health Organization (WHO). It aims to reduce the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer through a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, early detection, and treatment. The strategy is built on three main pillars: vaccination, screening, and treatment, with an overarching goal to achieve a 90-70-90 target by 2030.
90% of girls fully vaccinated with the
HPV vaccine by age 15.
70% of women screened using a high-performance test by age 35, and again by age 45.
90% of women identified with cervical disease receive treatment (90% of women with pre-cancer treated, and 90% of women with invasive cancer managed).
Why is HPV Vaccination Important?
The
human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer. Vaccination against HPV can prevent the majority of cervical cancer cases. It is recommended that girls receive the vaccine before they become sexually active, typically between the ages of 9 and 14. Increasing the coverage of HPV vaccination globally is essential to reduce the future burden of cervical cancer.
What Role Does Screening Play?
Screening is crucial for the early detection of pre-cancerous changes and early-stage cervical cancer. Methods such as the
Pap smear and HPV DNA testing are effective in identifying abnormalities. Regular screening allows for early intervention, which can significantly improve outcomes and reduce mortality rates.
How Can We Ensure Effective Treatment?
Effective treatment involves both the management of pre-cancerous lesions and the treatment of diagnosed cervical cancer. For pre-cancerous lesions, procedures such as
cryotherapy and Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) are commonly used. For invasive cancer, a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy may be required. Ensuring that women have access to these treatments, particularly in low-resource settings, is vital for the strategy's success.
Access to healthcare services, especially in low-income countries.
Awareness and education about HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening.
Healthcare infrastructure limitations, including the availability of trained healthcare providers and necessary equipment.
Cultural barriers and misconceptions about vaccines and cancer screenings.
Funding and resource allocation to support vaccination, screening, and treatment programs.
Strengthening healthcare systems and improving
access to care in underserved areas.
Increasing public
education and awareness campaigns to promote the benefits of HPV vaccination and regular screening.
Investing in training healthcare providers and ensuring the availability of essential medical equipment.
Encouraging community engagement to address cultural barriers and misconceptions.
Securing sustainable
funding sources and international support to implement and maintain these programs.
Conclusion
Eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem is an ambitious but achievable goal. By working towards the 90-70-90 targets through a combination of vaccination, screening, and treatment, and by addressing the challenges that hinder progress, the global community can significantly reduce the burden of cervical cancer. This comprehensive strategy requires collaboration, commitment, and sustained efforts from governments, healthcare providers, and communities worldwide.
