Global and Regional Diagnostic Results of Progress Toward Cervical Cancer Elimination, According to the WHO Strategy:...

Background/Objectives: In 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched a strategy to eliminate cervical cancer by ensuring high vaccination coverage, effective screening, and access to treatment. This systematic review assesses how this strategy has been implemented in different world regions, what results have been achieved, and what disparities and challenges have been faced. Methods: A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, GLOBOCAN, IARC, ASCO, and ESMO for publications issued between November 2020 and December 2024. A total of 721 records were reviewed and assessed, resulting in the inclusion of 47 studies in the final analysis. Results: Considerable regional variations were identified between the regions analyzed. Countries with organized vaccination programs, structured screening systems, and stronger treatment infrastructure generally reported more favorable outcomes. In contrast, several settings in Eastern Europe, parts of Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa remained below the WHO targets, with lower vaccination uptake, limited screening participation, and a persistently high cervical cancer burden. Progress was further constrained by inequalities in access to healthcare, differences in program organization, and limited comparability of available national data. Conclusions: Although many countries demonstrate that eliminating cervical cancer is achievable, global alignment with WHO targets remains uneven. Strengthening health infrastructure, improving vaccination uptake, and ensuring equitable access to screening and treatment are essential to turning this strategy into a realistic global outcome.