Challenges to the Eradication of Cervical Cancer

Abstract

In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global call to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem. Although human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination will be a significant contributor to reducing cervical cancer, its eradication will be challenging. HPV is implicated in 70% of cervical cancers; so 30% of cases are unlikely to benefit from a vaccine. Besides, several essential issues need to be addressed, including cost-effectiveness, affordability, implementation of the vaccine, functional health systems, and proper adherence. Therefore, prophylactic vaccination, in combination with the screening, is likely to be insufficient for achieving the plan of the WHO. Early cancer detection programs, actions for the adequate access global health care and the research and development of novel vaccines and drugs for the treatment of cervical cancer should continue.

Keywords: Cervical Cancer, Human Papillomavirus, Vaccine, Gardasil, World Health Organization