We Eradicate Cervical Cancer Like Polio , Experts often consider cervical cancer a preventable disease, yet it still remains the fourth most common Trusted Source form of cancer in females worldwide.
Despite that experts project the cases may increase through 2030Trusted Source, we have the tools to help prevent this cancer and improve early detection and treatment outcomes. Given the availability of these tools, some scientists believe that it may be possible to eliminate cervical cancer from the global community, similar to eradication efforts made during the polio epidemicTrusted Source. Read on to learn more about how people can eliminate cervical cancer worldwide and what you can do today to help protect yourself from developing this cancer.
Cervical cancer is a condition that begins within the lining of the cervix. Screening tools, such as Pap tests, can help detect precancerous cellsTrusted Source that could lead to this type of cancer, as well as early stages of cancer when it’s often most treatable. Experts attribute most cervical cancer casesTrusted Source to infections from the human papillomavirus (HPV). While there’s currently no cure for HPV, vaccination can help prevent related infections and the development of cervical cancer in females.
In November 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO)Trusted Source launched its Global Strategy to Accelerate the Elimination of Cervical Cancer. It outlines a three-step plan that could potentially reduce 40 percent of overall cervical cancer cases by 2050, as well as 5 million associated deaths.
Thesteps which would need to be met by 194 countries by the year 2030 include the following goalsTrusted Source: Vaccination: 90 percent of young females fully vaccinated against HPV by 15 years old Screening: 70 percent of females screened for HPV using an expert-recommendedTrusted Source “high performance test,” such as DNA testing, at 35 years old and again at 45 years old Treatment: 90 percent of females with cervical cancer will receive treatment, including pre-cancer treatments as well as invasive cervical cancer managemen Researchers also acknowledge a need for educational awareness promoting prevention and treatment strategies.
While some cases of cervical cancer run in families, most risk factors Trusted Source for this type of cancer can often be preventable, such as with HPV vaccines. Regular cancer screenings can also be crucial in detecting this type of cancer in its early stages, when treatment is often most effectiveTrusted Source.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to difficultiesTrusted Source with the implementation of the WHO’s strategy for Eradicate cervical cancer eradication due to interruptions in screenings, treatments, and vaccinations. Furthermore, pandemic-related closures made it more difficult for people from rural areas to travel for preventive and treatment measures. Border closures also led to delays in medical supplies. Cervical cancer is often a preventable disease, yet it remains a worldwide health concern. Increasing awareness and the availability of preventive measures such as HPV vaccines and regular screenings — may make it possible to eradicate this cancer.
The WHO outlined a strategy to place countries on a path to eliminate cervical cancer, with specific action items implemented by 2030. Ask a doctor about your own risk factors for cervical cancer, and how you can prevent your or your child’s risk of HPV infection and related cancers. Vaccination can be key, but regular screenings can also help detect cervical cancers early for the best possible outcome.
Source: This news is originally published by healthline