Cervical cancer has emerged as the fastest-increasing cancer in Canada, prompting urgent appeals for government intervention to address what experts describe as a “silent national health crisis.” This alarming message was conveyed during a press conference held by the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada in Ottawa. Despite the federal government’s commitment in its 2025 action plan to eradicate cervical cancer as a public health concern by 2040, medical professionals argue that immediate reforms are necessary to reverse the current trends.
The Current Crisis
Dr. Shannon Salvador, president of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada, highlighted the grim statistics during the conference. In 2025, approximately 1,650 Canadians were projected to be diagnosed with cervical cancer, with an estimated 430 fatalities resulting from this largely preventable disease. “Canada is currently serving a silent national health crisis,” Dr. Salvador asserted, pointing out the disconnect between advancements in medical science and public health policy.
Traditionally, Canada has depended on Pap testing for cervical cancer screening. However, Dr. Salvador noted that reliance on this method, combined with a stagnating uptake of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, has resulted in troubling outcomes. Currently, only 64 per cent of eligible individuals complete the HPV vaccination series, a figure she labelled as “far below the target necessary for elimination,” and indicative of broader policy failures.
Recommendations for Improvement
The Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada is advocating for a transformative approach to screening. They propose the immediate adoption of HPV DNA testing for cervical cancer detection, alongside the introduction of self-collection kits to enhance accessibility.
Current HPV testing involves collecting cell samples from the cervix or vagina, but self-administered testing offers a more convenient alternative. “At-home swabs can eliminate barriers such as travel issues, historical trauma, and the lack of a family doctor,” Dr. Salvador explained. This approach is vital for addressing the healthcare disparities faced by rural, Indigenous, and underserved communities, who often fall through the cracks in a fragmented system.
Dr. Sarah Kean, the provincial lead for cervical cancer in Manitoba, emphasised that Indigenous women are diagnosed at higher rates and often present with more advanced stages of the disease due to systemic barriers. “This is not a matter of biology; it is a result of access issues, geographic isolation, and the persistent effects of colonialism on healthcare,” she stated.
The Economic Burden of Cervical Cancer
The financial implications of cervical cancer are significant. The cost of treating cervical cancer to the Canadian healthcare system is estimated to reach $132 million in 2024 alone, with screening eligible populations projected to cost an additional $106 million over the subsequent five years. Dr. Salvador pointed out that the economic case for implementing effective screening and vaccination strategies is strong, especially given that cervical cancer is highly preventable.
Despite the World Health Organization’s global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer launched five years ago, progress in Canada appears to have stalled. The Canadian Cancer Society reported that while cervical cancer was once on the decline, the rates have levelled off since 2005, with only a marginal annual decrease of 0.3 per cent.
A Call to Action
The commitment from both Canada and the WHO to eliminate cervical cancer hinges on three critical pillars: vaccination, HPV-based DNA screening, and access to treatment. Dr. Kean underscored the urgency of these measures, stating, “All other cancers in our country are decreasing in incidence except for the one that is entirely preventable.”
In light of these findings, it is clear that concerted efforts from government bodies, healthcare providers, and the public are essential in addressing this escalating health crisis.
Why it Matters
The rising rates of cervical cancer in Canada are not merely statistics; they represent lives at risk and an urgent public health challenge. With the right policies, education, and resources, Canada has the potential to eliminate cervical cancer as a health threat. Immediate action is essential to ensure that no community is left behind, particularly those most vulnerable. A proactive approach could save countless lives and significantly reduce the economic burden of this preventable disease, creating a healthier future for all Canadians.
