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A Global First: A Blueprint for Eliminating Cervical Cancer in the Americas

SpeakerS:

Katherin Bliss, Senior Fellow and Director, Immunizations and Health Systems Resilience, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director, PAHO/WHO
The Hon. Mónica García Gómez, Minister of Health, Government of Spain
Violaine Mitchell, Director, Global Development, Immunization, The Gates Foundation

With Lead Programming Partner

“We have the tools, we have the commitment, and we can join efforts to eliminate cervical cancer.” Dr. Jarbas Barbosa
“We collaborated with the government of Colombia in organizing the first world forum for the elimination of cervical cancer.” The Hon. Mónica García Gómez
“We have a highly effective vaccine, more than 95% efficacious. We have a recommendation from the WHO.” Violaine Mitchell
“We can begin to ensure equitable access to some of these new tools and the role that partnerships can play in doing so.” Katherine Bliss

Key takeaways:

  • Elimination of cervical cancer is possible: With effective vaccines, tests, and treatments available for cervical cancer caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), it is possible to eliminate this disease in the Americas. 
  • Importance of political commitment and strong partnerships: Achieving elimination requires strong political commitment, multi-sectoral action, and effective partnerships among governments, civil society, donors, and multilateral institutions. 
  • Focus on health equity: There are significant health disparities in cervical cancer incidence and mortality, particularly affecting women in low-resource settings, indigenous populations, and marginalized communities. 
  • Need for increased HPV vaccination coverage: Expanding HPV vaccination, including the adoption of the single-dose strategy and incorporating men into vaccination programs, is crucial for prevention. 
  • Strengthening screening and early detection programs: Improving participation in cervical cancer screening programs and ensuring comprehensive follow-up care are essential components of elimination efforts. 
  • Leveraging lessons from past disease elimination campaigns: Applying lessons from successful regional initiatives such as the elimination of smallpox, polio, and measles can guide efforts to eliminate cervical cancer. 

Action items:

  • Advocate for political commitment: Encourage government leaders to prioritize cervical cancer elimination by developing and implementing national plans with measurable targets. 
  • Support equitable access to vaccines and screening: Work towards reducing health inequalities by ensuring that HPV vaccines and screening services reach all populations, especially those in underserved areas. 
  • Promote multi-sectoral partnerships: Facilitate collaboration among governments, civil society, donors, and multilateral organizations to pool resources and expertise. 
  • Enhance public awareness: Conduct educational campaigns to raise awareness about HPV vaccination and the importance of early detection to increase participation in prevention programs. 
  • Invest in health systems strengthening: Allocate resources to train healthcare professionals, improve infrastructure for vaccination and screening, and enhance follow-up care systems. 

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