PAHO Urges Stronger Cervical Cancer Prevention and Care Across the Americas

The PAHO has called on countries in the Americas to intensify efforts to prevent and treat cervical cancer, aiming to accelerate progress toward elimination targets.

PAHO emphasized that cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in the region, despite being largely preventable through vaccination, screening, and timely treatment.

Expanding HPV Vaccination Coverage

Health authorities are urged to strengthen immunization programs targeting human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer. Increasing vaccine coverage among adolescents is considered a cornerstone of elimination strategies.

Ensuring equitable access, particularly in underserved and rural communities, remains a critical priority.

Improving Screening and Early Detection

PAHO highlighted the need to expand cervical cancer screening services, including HPV testing and other evidence-based methods. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.

Integrating screening into primary healthcare services and leveraging digital health tools can help improve participation and follow-up care.

Access to Treatment and Care

In addition to prevention, PAHO underscored the importance of ensuring timely diagnosis and access to quality treatment for women diagnosed with cervical cancer. Strengthening referral systems and oncology services is essential for reducing mortality.

Comprehensive care includes surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and palliative services where needed.

Advancing Elimination Goals

The organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting countries in aligning with global cervical cancer elimination targets through coordinated policy action, funding, and technical assistance.

Experts note that with sustained political will, robust public health strategies, and community engagement, cervical cancer can become a largely preventable disease across the region.