HPV Testing, Self-Collection, and Vaccination: A Comprehensive Approach to Cervical Cancer Prevention

This white paper, prepared by a consortium of Canadian national and provincial organizations and experts, outlines urgent strategies to curb the rising incidence of HPV-related cancers, of which, cervical cancer is currently the fastest-growing cancer in Canada. Despite school-based vaccination programs, the national HPV vaccine uptake remains suboptimal at about 64%, far below the 90% coverage target by 2025 necessary to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040. The report emphasizes a multi-pronged approach: support access to HPV vaccination with expanded funding policies and education around school-based programs while addressing inequities in underserved populations. HPV testing is highlighted as the preferred method for cervical cancer screening, offering higher sensitivity than Pap smears. Self-collection is presented as an innovative strategy to reduce barriers, particularly for marginalized groups, with promising evidence from Canadian pilots and international models. Crucially, we call for investment in comprehensive, population-based databases to track vaccination, screening participation, and follow-up care. Robust registries would allow targeted outreach to under- or never-screened individuals, ensure timely follow-up of abnormal results, and measure the impact of prevention programs across Canada. With vaccination, equitable access to HPV testing, integration of self-collection, and strong data systems, Canada can achieve its goal of eliminating cervical cancer within two decades.