Cervical cancer is emerging as a significant health crisis in Canada, with experts urging the federal government to intensify efforts to combat this preventable disease. During a recent press conference in Ottawa, members of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada expressed alarm over the rising incidence of cervical cancer, despite the government’s commitment to eliminate it as a public health issue by 2040, as outlined in its action plan released in July 2025.
The Current Landscape of Cervical Cancer in Canada
Dr. Shannon Salvador, the president of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada, emphasised the gravity of the situation, describing it as a “silent national health crisis.” In 2025, approximately 1,650 Canadians are expected to be diagnosed with cervical cancer, with around 430 fatalities anticipated—deaths that Dr. Salvador asserts are preventable.
She highlighted the reliance on Pap testing and pointed to the stagnation in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates, which are crucial for preventing the disease. Although Canada initially embraced the HPV vaccine in the mid-2000s, the current completion rate stands at a concerning 64 per cent, significantly below the threshold required for effective elimination.
The Need for a Shift in Screening Practices
To address the alarming statistics, the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada is advocating for an “immediate, national shift” towards HPV DNA testing for cervical cancer screening. This includes the implementation of self-collection kits that would allow individuals to conduct tests in the comfort of their homes.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, HPV testing can be performed through a swab taken from the cervix or vagina. Self-collection options are now available and could prove vital in increasing accessibility, particularly for those facing barriers such as geographic isolation, trauma history, or lack of healthcare resources.
Dr. Sarah Kean, the provincial lead for cervical cancer in Manitoba, underscored the disparities in diagnosis and treatment experienced by Indigenous women, who are often diagnosed at later stages and suffer worse outcomes due to systemic issues within the healthcare system.
Overcoming Barriers to Access
Dr. Kean pointed out that the health gender gap has persisted, particularly affecting rural, Indigenous, and underserved communities. “Indigenous women are diagnosed at higher rates, with more advanced disease, and they experience worse outcomes. This is not due to biology,” she stated, attributing these disparities to barriers in access to screening resources and the enduring impacts of colonial practices.
The necessity for a comprehensive approach to HPV screening across Canada is paramount. Dr. Kean called for federal legislation that guarantees universal access to primary HPV testing, emphasising that updating guidelines alone is insufficient.
The Economic Implications of Inaction
The financial burden of treating cervical cancer on the Canadian healthcare system is substantial. In 2024, the costs associated with treating cervical cancer are projected to reach approximately £132 million. In contrast, effective screening for eligible Canadians would require an investment of about £106 million over five years.
This financial perspective highlights the urgent need for proactive measures. The Canadian Cancer Society indicates that cervical cancer is the fourth most diagnosed cancer among women globally, and its rising rates in Canada contradict the general trend of declining incidence for other cancers.
Why it Matters
Cervical cancer is largely preventable with the right public health strategies. The rising incidence of this disease in Canada serves as a call to action for policymakers and healthcare leaders. By prioritising HPV vaccination, enhancing screening access, and addressing systemic barriers, Canada can turn the tide against cervical cancer and ensure that no woman is left vulnerable to this preventable disease. The health of our communities depends on it.
