Cervical cancer is increasingly being recognised as one of the most pressing public health issues in Canada, with experts labelling it a “silent national health crisis.” This stark warning came from the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada during a press conference held in Ottawa, where they called for immediate government intervention to combat this escalating threat. Despite a federal action plan introduced in July 2025, which aims to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem by 2040, experts are alarmed that current measures are insufficient.
The Alarming Statistics
Dr. Shannon Salvador, president of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada, shared sobering statistics indicating that an estimated 1,650 Canadians were diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2025, leading to approximately 430 preventable deaths. “While advancements in modern medicine are commendable, we are facing a significant outlier in cervical cancer incidence,” Dr. Salvador stated.
Currently, Canada’s reliance on traditional Papanicolaou (Pap) testing has not translated into adequate protection against the disease. With the national completion rate for the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine stagnating at only 64%, Dr. Salvador highlighted this as a substantial policy failure. “This statistic is not merely a medical issue; it underscores a broader failure in our health policy,” she emphasised.
A Call for Innovative Solutions
In light of these challenges, the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada is advocating for a substantial shift towards HPV DNA testing for cervical cancer screening. They propose the introduction of self-collection kits, which would simplify the screening process and make it more accessible for individuals who may face barriers to traditional testing methods.
Dr. Salvador pointed out that these at-home kits can significantly reduce obstacles related to geographical isolation, trauma history, and cultural marginalisation, particularly affecting those in rural or underserved communities. “These kits can provide vital access for populations that have historically fallen through the cracks of our fragmented health system,” she noted.
Addressing Inequities in Healthcare
Dr. Sarah Kean, provincial lead for cervical cancer in Manitoba, echoed the urgent need for improved access to HPV screening across Canada. She emphasised that Indigenous women experience higher rates of diagnosis at more advanced stages of the disease, attributing this disparity not to biological factors but to systemic barriers in healthcare access, including geography, poverty, and racism.
“Robust HPV screening must encompass universal access across all provinces and territories, supported by clear national standards,” Dr. Kean insisted. This call highlights the necessity for an equitable healthcare framework that addresses the unique needs of vulnerable populations.
Financial Implications for the Healthcare System
The financial strain on the Canadian healthcare system due to cervical cancer treatment is significant, with costs estimated at $132 million in 2024. Furthermore, screening eligible Canadians is projected to cost approximately $106 million over the next five years. The need for effective preventive measures is underscored by the fact that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers if appropriate actions are taken.
Why it Matters
As Canada grapples with rising cervical cancer rates amidst otherwise declining cancer statistics, the urgency for a comprehensive approach cannot be overstated. The recommendations put forth by healthcare advocates reflect a growing consensus that innovative testing methods and systemic changes are crucial to combat this preventable disease. The health and wellbeing of countless Canadians depend on the swift and decisive action of policymakers. Failing to address these issues not only jeopardises individual lives but also burdens the healthcare system, ultimately affecting the nation’s overall health landscape.
