Updates on cervical cancer prevention.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Cervical cancer caused 604,127 new cases and 341,831 deaths in 2020, disproportionately affecting less developed countries.
• Persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the primary cause, with high-risk genotypes like HPV 16 and 18 responsible for ~70% of cases.
• Despite effective screening and vaccines, global progress in combating this preventable disease is insufficient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review of primary and secondary prevention strategies for cervical cancer.
• To inform efforts towards the World Health Organization's 2030 cervical cancer elimination goal.
• To highlight the importance of HPV vaccination and screening in reducing cervical cancer burden.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of primary and secondary prevention methods for cervical cancer.
• Analysis of current global cervical cancer incidence and mortality data.
• Examination of World Health Organization's cervical cancer elimination strategy components.

Main Results:

• Systematic screening (cytology-based and HPV-based) and HPV vaccination have proven effective in reducing cervical cancer rates, especially in developed nations.
• The World Health Organization aims to vaccinate 90% of girls and screen 70% of women by specific ages, alongside ensuring treatment for diagnosed cases.
• Despite identified etiological agents and available interventions, global outcomes remain poor, necessitating intensified prevention efforts.

Conclusions:

• Cervical cancer is a preventable disease, with HPV vaccination and HPV-based screening being key primary and secondary prevention pillars.
• Achieving the WHO's ambitious elimination goal by 2030 requires significant global commitment to vaccination, screening, and treatment.
• Enhanced implementation of evidence-based prevention strategies is crucial to reduce the global burden of cervical cancer.