Cervical cancer is rapidly becoming one of the most pressing health issues in Canada, with medical experts urging the federal government to intensify its efforts in combating this silent epidemic. At a recent press conference in Ottawa, the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada highlighted alarming statistics and called for immediate changes to current health policies to address the rising incidence of this preventable disease.
A Growing Concern
Dr. Shannon Salvador, president of the Society, addressed a gathering of healthcare professionals, drawing attention to the disconcerting rise in cervical cancer cases. In 2025, it was projected that approximately 1,650 Canadians would receive a cervical cancer diagnosis, with around 430 fatalities expected. “This is a crisis we cannot ignore,” Dr. Salvador remarked. “While advancements in medicine have been celebrated, the reality of our cervical cancer rates tells a different story.”
Despite the Canadian government’s commitment to eliminating cervical cancer as a public health concern by 2040, as outlined in its action plan released in July 2025, experts argue that progress has been alarmingly slow. Dr. Salvador stressed the need for a shift in approach, noting the current reliance on Papanicolaou (Pap) tests and the stagnation of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates, which are critical in preventing cervical cancer.
The Need for Enhanced Screening
The Society of Gynecologic Oncology has advocated for a national transition to HPV DNA testing as the primary method for cervical cancer screening. Furthermore, they propose the implementation of self-collection swabs and kits, aimed at making screening more accessible. “These home test kits can eliminate barriers that inhibit access—such as geographical challenges, historical trauma, and lack of healthcare providers,” Dr. Salvador explained.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, HPV testing can be performed using a swab to collect cells from the cervix or vagina. Self-administered tests are already available and allow individuals to gather samples from home, thereby reducing the hurdles that many face when seeking medical care.
Addressing Health Disparities
Dr. Sarah Kean, the provincial lead for cervical cancer in Manitoba, highlighted the disproportionate impact of cervical cancer on Indigenous women, who are diagnosed at higher rates and often face more advanced stages of the disease. “This disparity isn’t rooted in biology,” Dr. Kean stated. “Instead, it stems from systemic barriers, including healthcare access, geographic isolation, and the historical legacy of colonialism.”
The call for robust and accessible HPV screening across Canada is urgent. “It is essential that we not only update guidelines but also ensure that every province and territory has universal access to primary HPV testing with clear national standards,” Dr. Kean asserted.
Financial Implications of Inaction
The financial burden of cervical cancer on the Canadian healthcare system is substantial. Dr. Salvador noted that the costs associated with treating cervical cancer were estimated at CAD 132 million in 2024, while the cost to screen eligible Canadians over the next five years could reach CAD 106 million. The necessity for proactive measures is evident, particularly given that cervical cancer is among the most preventable forms of cancer.
Why it Matters
The rising rates of cervical cancer in Canada represent a critical public health challenge that requires immediate action. As the medical community advocates for transformative changes in screening and vaccination policies, it is essential that the federal government responds decisively. By addressing the systemic barriers that contribute to health disparities and enhancing access to preventive measures, Canada can significantly reduce the incidence of cervical cancer and improve health outcomes for all citizens. This is not just a health issue; it is a matter of equity, justice, and the right to accessible healthcare for every Canadian.
