Cervical cancer has been identified as the most rapidly increasing cancer in Canada, with medical professionals urging the federal government to intensify efforts to combat what they describe as a “silent national health crisis.” This call to action from the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada comes despite a recently announced federal action plan aimed at eradicating cervical cancer as a public health issue by 2040.
Alarming Statistics Highlight the Crisis
During a press conference held in Ottawa, Dr. Shannon Salvador, president of the Society, unveiled shocking statistics regarding the disease. In 2025, approximately 1,650 Canadians were diagnosed with cervical cancer, with an estimated 430 fatalities attributed to the condition. Dr. Salvador emphasised that these deaths could be avoided with timely intervention and improved healthcare strategies.
“The situation we are facing is not merely a medical failure; it reflects a significant policy failure,” Salvador stated. She highlighted that reliance on Pap tests and insufficient human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates have contributed to this escalating health crisis.
The Need for Enhanced Screening and Vaccination
Canada’s HPV vaccination completion rate has stagnated at 64 per cent, a figure that falls short of the threshold necessary for effective cancer elimination. Dr. Salvador called for an urgent shift in screening practices, advocating for the integration of HPV DNA testing into cervical cancer screening protocols. The introduction of HPV self-collection kits has also been proposed to make screening more accessible for individuals facing barriers such as geographical isolation, lack of a family doctor, or historical trauma.
The Canadian Cancer Society supports these recommendations, noting that self-administered testing can be conducted using a simple swab to collect samples from either the cervix or vagina. This approach aims to remove obstacles that prevent individuals from accessing vital healthcare services.
Addressing Health Inequities
Dr. Sarah Kean, provincial lead for cervical cancer in Manitoba, pointed out the disparities in health outcomes for Indigenous women, who are diagnosed with cervical cancer at higher rates and often experience more advanced stages of the disease. “This is not due to biology,” Kean remarked, “but rather the result of systemic barriers, including geographic isolation and ongoing impacts of colonial practices.”
To combat these inequities, Kean has called for robust and accessible HPV screening across Canada, demanding that federal legislation support universal access to primary HPV testing. “It is crucial that we establish clear national standards to ensure that all Canadians have equitable access to life-saving screenings,” she asserted.
The Financial Burden of Cervical Cancer
The economic implications of cervical cancer are significant. Dr. Salvador revealed that the costs associated with treating the disease amounted to $132 million in 2024 alone. Conversely, implementing a comprehensive screening programme for eligible Canadians is projected to cost $106 million over a five-year span. This financial burden underscores the urgent need for effective prevention strategies.
Despite the World Health Organization’s global commitment to eliminate cervical cancer, progress in Canada appears to have stagnated. A report from the Canadian Cancer Society indicated that cervical cancer remains the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer among females worldwide, with 1,600 Canadians expected to be diagnosed in 2024.
Why it Matters
The rising incidence of cervical cancer in Canada is a clarion call for immediate policy reform and action. As we navigate this public health challenge, it is imperative that the government prioritises accessible screening and vaccination initiatives, particularly for vulnerable and underserved communities. By addressing these critical issues, we can turn the tide against cervical cancer and work towards a future where this preventable disease no longer poses a threat to Canadian lives.
