The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and World Health Organization (WHO) have organized a regional event on November 17, 2020, for the World Health Assembly to present the Global Strategy for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer. The event will include discussions on how to implement goals and strengthen commitments to eradicate cervical cancer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, all women are at risk of developing cervical cancer, especially those over 30 years old. It is the leading cause of cancer death for women in the Americas and 11 other countries. Out of around 266,000 annual deaths, 87% belong to developing countries. Without prevention strategies, there may be over 400,000 deaths per year by 2035.
Cervical Cancer Can Be Eradicated
Prevention measures include screening tests and the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. Early detection of cancer and treatment increases the chances of long survival.
The WHO believes that cervical cancer can be completely eliminated because it is preventable and curable. The available tools researchers have already developed in the past few years just need to be made accessible.
The resolution for the global eradication of the cancer was passed in August earlier this year. "It is a testament to the enthusiasm for this important goal that, even in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, countries around the world have affirmed their support for this important priority," wrote the WHO in a statement.
Global Effort
194 nations are joined together, led by advocates and survivors of cervical cancer in launching the strategic plans. Goals include all nations having 90% HPV vaccinations, 70% screening coverage, as well as 90% access to treatment for both cervical pre-cancer and cancer by 2030.
The Ministers of Health of the Region of the Americas agreed two years ago that a series of strategies would be implemented to reduce cervical cancer deaths and new cases by 30% by 2030. Anselm Hennis from PAHO/WHO said that the implementation of mass HPV vaccination programs would only be possible through community participation. It is important that screening services become widely available to save lives and prevent new cases.
The event will also include media campaigns and advocacy activities. Monuments, buildings, and other public campaigns will parade the color teal to signify cervical cancer awareness. Other strategies include the promotion of sexual health and HIV/STD prevention programs.
Preventing HPV is especially important because it can result in other infections aside from cervical cancer. Immunocompromised individuals and those with HIV are at increased risk of HPV infection progressing into cancer.
Some of the speakers at the event include Dr. Jane Kim from Harvard University who will be sharing the projected impact of the vaccine, screening and treatment, and other doctors specializing in immunization, colposcopy, and oncology. The event will be followed by a second webinar on new technical materials to support implementation strategies.
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