Cervical cancer has emerged as the fastest-growing cancer in Canada, prompting urgent calls from medical professionals for the federal government to take decisive action. During a press conference held in Ottawa by the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada, experts highlighted the growing concern over what they describe as a “silent national health crisis.” This plea for action comes despite the government’s commitment outlined in a July 2025 action plan, which aims to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health issue by 2040.
Alarming Statistics and Insufficient Vaccination Rates
Dr. Shannon Salvador, president of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada, expressed deep concern regarding the rising incidence of cervical cancer. In 2025, it is estimated that 1,650 Canadians will be diagnosed with this disease, with 430 expected fatalities—deaths that Dr. Salvador insists are preventable. She noted that while advancements in medical technology have been celebrated, there remains a significant gap in effective prevention strategies.
Current reliance on Pap testing and the stagnant rates of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination are major contributors to the crisis. With only 64 per cent of the population fully vaccinated against HPV, Dr. Salvador termed this statistic a “policy failure,” highlighting that the target for effective elimination remains vastly unmet.
Shifting Toward Effective Screening Methods
The Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada is advocating for an immediate transition to HPV DNA testing for cervical cancer screening. They propose the implementation of self-collection kits, which would empower individuals to conduct screenings at home, thereby removing barriers to access. These barriers include geographical isolation, historical trauma, and systemic inequalities faced by rural, Indigenous, and underserved communities.
Dr. Salvador is firm in her belief that these self-administered kits can significantly enhance screening participation, particularly for those who have traditionally faced obstacles in accessing healthcare services. “These at-home swabs can eliminate many hurdles, making a crucial difference in detection rates,” she stated.
The Disparities in Healthcare Access
The disparities in cervical cancer outcomes among different demographics are stark. Dr. Sarah Kean, the provincial lead for cervical cancer in Manitoba, pointed out that Indigenous women are diagnosed at later stages and often experience worse outcomes than their non-Indigenous counterparts. This disparity is not a matter of biology, she explained, but rather a consequence of systemic barriers, including limited access to screening resources and the enduring effects of colonial practices in healthcare.
Dr. Kean called for robust, accessible HPV screening initiatives across Canada, emphasising the necessity for federal legislation to support these undertakings. “True progress requires more than just updated guidelines; it necessitates universal access to HPV testing across all provinces and territories, with clear national standards,” she asserted.
The Financial Implications of Inaction
The financial burden of cervical cancer on the Canadian healthcare system is significant, with treatment costs projected to reach $132 million in 2024. In contrast, the estimated cost of screening eligible Canadians over a five-year period is anticipated to be around $106 million. The disparity in these figures raises critical questions about the long-term savings that could be achieved through improved prevention strategies.
Despite previous declines in cervical cancer rates from 1984 to 2005, recent statistics indicate a troubling plateau, with the Canadian Cancer Society reporting minimal decreases in incidence rates since then. As a result, the urgency for effective measures is more pressing than ever.
Why it Matters
The rise in cervical cancer cases in Canada is not merely a statistic; it represents the lives of thousands of women and their families. The call for enhanced screening and vaccination measures is a call for justice in healthcare access. Addressing these disparities is essential not only for improving individual health outcomes but also for reducing the overall burden on the healthcare system. By prioritising cervical cancer prevention, Canada can lead the way in turning a public health crisis into a success story, ultimately saving lives and ensuring equitable healthcare for all.
